Cruise destinations

Mumbai

Blessed with a natural harbour, Mumbai is one of the busiest ports of India, conducting about 40% of India’s maritime trade. Over the years, Mumbai has been transformed into the fastest moving, most prosperous and industrialised city in India with flourishing markets, business houses and many different communities reflecting a cosmopolitan and trendy atmosphere rarely seen elsewhere.

Being the capital of Maharashtra and hub of filmstars, Mumbai as such attracts tourist from all over the world. Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai is also known as the Gateway of India and a shopper’s paradise offering almost every type of cuisine of the world.

SuperStar Libra Shore Excursions:

LBOM-1A – City Highlights

Visit the Jain Temple, built of marble and dedicated to Adinath, the first of the twenty-four thirthankars or Jain prophets. Continue your visit to the Hanging Gardens, which offer a splendid view of the city and later drive past the “Towers of Silence”. Stop for a photo opportunity at the Open Air Laundry in Dhobi Ghat. Even if you are not interested in other people’s dirty laundry, you’ll be fascinated by the dhobi ghats. Visit Mani Bhawan where Mahatama Gandhi stayed during his visits to Mumbai.

Drive past through the Victoria Terminus – designed in early gothic style blended with Indian motifs, the colourful Crawford Market, the Flora Fountain located in the large bustline square at the heart of the city. Continue your visit to Prince of Wales Museum and later proceed to Gateway of India – the landmark of the Old Mumbai for a photo stop before returning to the ship.

LBOM-2A – Temple Tour

Depart to the Afgan Church, dedicated to the soldiers of the British army who laid their lives in the Singh and Afgan campaign from 1838 till 1843. Head to Banganga Tank – a sacred tank surrounded by four hundred-year-old temples and modern skyscrapers. Part of an ancient temple complex, the water in this tank is believed to come from the Holy Ganges.

Next, visit the Jain Temple which was built in marble in 1904. Head to the Mahalaxmi Temple which sits atop a long flight of steps on the edge of the Arabian Sea. It is devoted to Laxmi, the Goddess of Wealth, and Lady Lucre to millions of adoring Indians. It is said that in the 1890s, when the adjoining causeway was being constructed by a British engineer, the project was always jinxed: every time the foundation was laid, the sea would rush in and destroy it. Then one night, a labourer dreamt of Goddess Laxmi who ordered him to dig out an idol from a spot under the causeway and build a shrine on it. The legend goes that Haji Ali died on a pilgrimage to Mecca and miraculously his casket floated back to these shores. Honouring the Muslim saint Haji Ali this mosque was built in the middle of the sea with only a narrow path leading to it giving it an ethereal look. It is set 500 yards into the sea and can be reached only in low tide.

Kadmat Island (Lakshadweep), India

Kadmat is one of the few islands in Lakshadweep which is open to tourists. It is ideal as a holiday destination as it rescues you from the hustle and bustle of city life to a peaceful retreat of coconut palm groves and a haven for water sports lovers. The narrow and beautiful shallow lagoons on the east and west respectively are the ideal spots for leisurely walks and water sports. This spectacular tropical island is remotely located 220-440 kms off the Malabar Coast. Conferred the National Eco-Tourism Awards 1997, the islands offer a natural heritage of ecology with its rich maritime wealth, pristine beaches and lagoons. Adventurers can indulge in scuba diving, wind surfing and parasailing. If you prefer, kayaks, pedal boats, sailing yachts, skiing boats and glass bottom boats are also available for hire.

Goa, India

Goa has come a long way from just being a panoramic beach paradise with its charming stretches of snowy velvety white sands and surf beaches by the crystal clear Arabian Sea. The delicious aroma of seafood, the magnificent colours of light at sunset into the sea definitely consumes one’s heart and creates a mystical illusion.

Goa obtained its unique identity and a great blend of East and West culture from the 400 years of Portuguese influence on its towns and villages. This place truly encompasses scenic charms, tourist spots, intricate churches and temples, evergreen hills and mountains and historical forts that have kept the legacy of the Portuguese alive. Take the opportunity to experience this mystical location and discover exotic and varied culture.

SuperStar Libra Shore Excursions:

LGOA-1A – Highlights of Goa

Highlights include Goa’s ornate and magical Hindu Temples. Here visitors will visit the two most famous temples namely Shantadurga Temple dedicated to Goddess Parvathi & Lord Naguesh, and the Mangueshi Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is a colourful mixture of Hindu, Muslim and Christian architecture. Its seven-tier tower lamp is a magical sight when lit during festivals.

Proceed next to Old Goa – the ancient capital of Goa, once ruled by Adil Shah and was later conquered by the Portuguese. All that now remains of former glory, are its imposing churches and cathedrals which houses 14 magnificent Altars and 5 bells of which one is the famous Golden Bell said to have been heard all over Goa. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, houses the mortal and visible remains of Goa’s Patron – Saint Francis Xavier, in a silver casket. These Churches are also considered as “World Heritage Monuments.” Then drive into Goa’s capital city Panjim where one can spend some time shopping before enjoying Miramar Beach.

LGOA-2A – Old Goa & Calangute Beach

Visit Old Goa Churches, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which is the most famous and popular church in Goa. The mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, kept in a silver casket, are enshrined here. Next, visit the Se Cathedral the most imposing of all churches at Old Goa. Its vaulted interior overwhelms the visitors by sheer grandeur. Drive to Calangute beach is one of the best beaches in North Goa. This beach is also referred to as the 'Queen of Beaches’, where you will have some free time to enjoy the variety of water sports activities available there. Enjoy some time in Panjim for shopping.

LGOA-3A – Goan Carnival

Enjoy the Waterfront Carnival venue where guests are welcomed into the colourfully decorated venue by face painters and flow into an evening of wine, food and fun. One of Goa’s leading DJ and King Momo’s parade along with his brass band will provide the music to keep the spirits up, backed with performances by Limbo and fire dancers. Pole dancers, percussionists, traditional folk dances like the Corredinho (Portuguese) and the Dekhni will also form a part of the evening. There is also a mini Flea Market and Artisan village to complete your Indian shopping experience.

Arabian Sea Cruises Season: October 2005 to April 2006

Destination Kochi (Optional Shore Excursions)

Kochi, has one of the finest natural harbours in the world. Ancient mariners from Arabia, China, Holland, Britain and Portugal have all left their mark on this beautiful island city. Formerly known as Cochin, this tourist destination is set on a stunning location between the Arabian Sea and Backwaters. This harbour city of Kerala with its breathtaking beauty, will enthrall anyone with its aromatic spices and abundant availability of fresh bananas and coconuts. Kochi is also famous for its superb cuisine, fusioned with an array of mixed spices, seafood and meat dishes to delight any hungry visitor.

Highlights of Kochi

Visit St Francis Church built in 1503, which is one of the oldest churches constructed by Europeans on Indian soil. Vasco de Gama, the first European to reach India by sailing around Africa, died in Kochi in 1524 and was buried here for 14 years until his body was transferred to Lisbon in Portugal.

Next, visit the Chinese Fishing Nets. Next depart for Mattancherry Palace built by the Portugese in 1567. The most important aspect of this palace, however is the astonishing murals in the bed chambers and other rooms depicting the scenes from the Ramayana and Puranic legends connected with Shiva, Vishnu, Krishna, Kumara and Durga. Continue your tour with a visit to the Jewish Synagogue, which was built in 1568. This is the oldest synagogue in the commonwealth. The present building was destroyed by shelling during a Portuguese raid in 1662 and was rebuilt two years later when the Dutch took over Kochi. Guests also have the opportunity to shop at the local Jewish Town.

Kochi Harbour Cruise

Cruise in a motorboat and discover Kochi which is a cluster of islands networked by lagoons and backwaters. This is one of the finest naturals harbours in the world and was once a major centre of trade and commerce with the Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and the British. While cruising through the harbour in a motorboat, you will be able to see the Chinese fishing nets, a glimpse of Kerala Village by the backwaters, churches, etc

Kochi Delights

Depart to Fort Kochi for a photostop at St. Francis Church and the Chinese Fishing Nets. St Francis Chuch was built in 1503 and is one of the oldest churches constructed by Europeans on Indian soil. Vasco de Gama, the first European to reach India by sailing around Africa, died in Kochi in 1524 and was buried here for 14 years until his body was transferred to Lisbon in Portugal. Stop at MG Road, Ernakulam, a modern part of the city known for its many showrooms selling dress materials, Guests will have a choice to either disembark here or to disembark at Broadway – a local market famous for readymade garments and spices. Await your pick-up either at Broadway or MG Road before heading back to the ship.

Arabian Sea Cruises Season: October 2005 to April 2006

Destination Chennai (Relocation cruise optional tours)

Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is a city on the east coast of southern India. It is India's fourth largest metropolitan city and sits on the shores of the Bay of Bengal. Known for its cultural heritage, Chennai is a city where the traditional and the modern blend in life everywhere. Take a stroll over the sandy stretch of beach known as the Marina, or visit Fort St.

George, built by the British East India Company. Many of the street names reflect the city’s long association with other cultures such as China Bazaar Road, Armenian Street and Portuguese Church Street. Experience the culture in temples, art galleries or museums. Port Blair in the Andaman Islands, which is located east across the Bay of Bengal is a paradise archipelago, lush and forested, home of some of the most exotic plant-life in the world. The crystal clear waters shimmer with tropical fish, and the islands are famous for their corals and water-sports facilities. North of Chennai, the state of Andhra Pradesh, is rich with archaeological and architectural treasures.

PONDICHERRY

Arrive at Pondicherry and proceed with sightseeing of this quaint town. Pondicherry – a former French colony presents an unusual combination of European culture and Indian traditions. Its history can be traced back to Agastya, the revered sage of the south who built his hermitage here in 1500 BC. It became part of Indian in 1954 but traces of its history as a French colony still remains – evident in its churches, cuisine, grid-patterned streets and colonial buildings. This restored colony exudes a Mediterranean aura, with its chic streets, whitewashed residences, ornamental gardens and Hotel de Ville. Next, visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and its offshoot, Auroville, 10km outside town. The ashram, whose spiritual tenets combine yoga and modern science, is one of the most popular and affluent society in India.