Christmas in New York, New Year in the Caribbean aboard Queen Mary 2

Your journey starts on your terms: while the base package includes a Lufthansa Economy Class flight (including checked baggage), your options remain fully flexible. Whether you require feeder flights to Frankfurt or direct connections from various European airports, we customize the route to suit you. For added comfort, we are happy to assist with upgrades to Premium Economy or Business Class.

Upon arrival in New York, you will be welcomed with a professional Meet & Greet at the airport. A private transfer will take you directly to your hotel, The Martinique New York on Broadway. After check-in, enjoy your first personal explorations in Manhattan or simply unwind in the hotel's luxurious surroundings.

Heute erleben Sie New York authentisch und hautnah. In einer kleinen, persönlichen Gruppe (ca. 10–16 Personen) erkunden Sie die Stadt vorwiegend zu Fuß. Da längere Distanzen mit der Metro und dem Bus zurückgelegt werden, fungiert Ihr Guide gleichzeitig als Mobilitäts-Experte: Sie lernen direkt, wie das komplexe Nahverkehrssystem funktioniert, damit Sie sich in den kommenden Tagen sicher wie ein echter New Yorker bewegen können.

Die Tour führt Sie zu den absoluten Highlights von Manhattan: Vom glitzernden Times Square und dem Rockefeller Center über die elegante Fifth Avenue bis hin zur grünen Lunge, dem Central Park. Im Süden erkunden Sie die trendigen Viertel SoHo, Tribeca und das charmante Greenwich Village, bevor Sie an der Wall Street und dem bewegenden 9/11 Memorial die Geschichte der Stadt spüren.

Das Besondere: Ihr lokaler Guide erzählt Ihnen nicht nur Fakten, sondern berichtet aus dem Nähkästchen über das wahre Leben in der Stadt. Erfahren Sie alles über die Herausforderungen des Alltags, die legendären Mietpreise und die kulturelle Vielseitigkeit – Einblicke, die über jede klassische Tour hinausgehen.

Use this day to discover New York according to your own wishes. Whether you visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island or take a relaxed stroll through the charming streets of SoHo and the artistic Greenwich Village – the city is yours to explore.

For the ultimate Christmas shopping experience, we recommend a walk along the festively lit Fifth Avenue. A visit to Macy’s, the city's largest department store, is also an absolute must. You can end your evening perfectly with a dazzling Broadway show or by exploring New York's vibrant nightlife.

This day is yours as well: dive into the fascinating world of the American Museum of Natural History or enjoy the peaceful winter atmosphere with a stroll through Central Park.

In the afternoon there is time for some last Christmas shopping before you go on board the next day. In the evening, take in the festively lit Manhattan skyline.

After a relaxed breakfast, you will check out of The Martinique New York on Broadway. A transfer takes you to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, where the Queen Mary 2, Cunard Line’s flagship, awaits.

After embarkation, settle into your stateroom and start exploring the timeless luxury on board. As the ship departs and passes the Statue of Liberty, your grand Caribbean adventure begins.

Welcome to Road Town, the charming heart of the British Virgin Islands. Tortola greets you with a picture-perfect backdrop of lush green hills and turquoise waters. Thanks to the island's compact size, all highlights are just a short trip away.

Your Shore Excursion Highlights:

• Dream Beaches & Snorkeling: In just 20–30 minutes, you can reach Cane Garden Bay or the idyllic Smuggler’s Cove. The latter is a paradise for snorkelers – keep an eye out for sea turtles and vibrant coral reefs.

• Culture & History: Stroll along Main Street with its pastel-colored buildings. Visit the Callwood Rum Distillery, which is over 400 years old, or enjoy the harbor views from the ruins of Fort Burt.

• Pure Nature: Hiking enthusiasts will love Mount Sage National Park. The summit offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding islands.

• Shopping & Dining: Right at the pier, the modern Tortola Pier Park awaits with over 70 shops. For authentic souvenirs, head to the Crafts Alive Market. Be sure to try local specialties like Jerk Chicken or a traditional Roti.

Welcome to Philipsburg, the vibrant capital of the Dutch side of St. Maarten. The city is uniquely situated on a narrow stretch of land, nestled between the sparkling Caribbean Sea and the historic Great Salt Pond.

Your Shore Excursion Highlights:

• World-Class Shopping: Philipsburg is world-renowned for its duty-free shopping. Along Front Street, you will find everything from luxury watches and jewelry to high-end fashion. Don't forget to explore the small alleys (Steegjes) for charming boutiques selling local crafts.

• Sun & Relaxation: The beautiful city beach at Great Bay is just a short stroll from the pier. Relax on the soft sand or walk along the bustling boardwalk, lined with numerous bars and restaurants.

• Nature & Panoramas: A walk by the Great Salt Pond offers a chance to observe local birdlife. For photography enthusiasts, the scenery between the lake and the ocean provides endless stunning motifs.

Whether you spend your day on an exclusive shopping spree or enjoy a cool drink with a view of the Queen Mary 2, Philipsburg offers the perfect adventure for every traveler.

Bridgetown, the vibrant capital of Barbados, is a fascinating blend of colonial history and tropical flair. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city offers a wealth of discoveries just a short distance from the cruise pier.

Your Shore Excursion Highlights:

• Living History: Step back in time at George Washington House, the former residence of the first US President, or visit the Nidhe Israel Synagogue, one of the oldest in the Western Hemisphere.

• Harrison’s Cave Wonders: Take an electric tram through this spectacular underground cave system, featuring crystallized limestone, deep pools, and towering columns.

• Wildlife Encounters: At the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, you can spot green monkeys and exotic birds. For an unforgettable experience, join a tour to swim with sea turtles in the island's turquoise waters.

• Rum & Heritage: Barbados is the birthplace of rum. Explore the historic St. Nicholas Abbey for a tasting or enjoy an authentic rum punch right on the beach.

• Pristine Beaches: The nearby Brownes Beach offers more than just white sand; its offshore shipwrecks make it a haven for snorkelers and underwater explorers.

Dining Tip: Don't miss the national dish, Cou-Cou and Flying Fish, or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the lively eateries along Broad Street.

The capital, Castries, welcomes you to an idyllic bay on the northwest coast. St. Lucia is famous for its striking architecture and a fascinating fusion cuisine that blends French and British heritage with vibrant Creole traditions.

Your Shore Excursion Highlights:

• Architecture & Culture: Visit the Castries Cathedral, the largest church in the Caribbean, renowned for its colorful murals. Nearby, Derek Walcott Square offers a peaceful retreat under lush trees.

• Morne Fortuné Viewpoint: Head up the "Hill of Good Fortune." From the historic Fort Charlotte, you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the harbor and the coastline – a perfect photo opportunity.

• Beach Bliss at Vigie Beach: Located just 5 minutes from the center, this golden sand beach is the perfect spot to relax and swim in turquoise waters away from the crowds.

• Castries Central Market: Immerse yourself in the local lifestyle at this historic market (dating back to 1891). It’s the best place for exotic spices, local crafts, and handmade souvenirs.

• Nature Walks: For those seeking activity, the trails near La Toc Beach offer a close-up look at the island’s tropical flora and fauna.

Dining Tip: Try the national dish, "Green Figs and Saltfish" (green bananas and salted fish), or sample some world-class local chocolate, made from cocoa beans grown right on the island’s plantations.

Roseau is one of the Caribbean's best-preserved capitals, featuring vibrant colors and 18th-century architecture. This walkable city serves as the gateway to Dominica’s wild, volcanic beauty and lush rainforests.

Your Shore Excursion Highlights:

• Historic Roseau: Stroll down Victoria Street to see the Carnegie Library and the impressive St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Visit the Old Market right by the pier, where you can find local crafts and learn about the island's poignant history.

• Dominica Botanical Gardens: A short walk from the ship, these gardens host exotic flora, orchids, and the rare Sisserou parrot. Don't miss the iconic baobab tree that famously crushed a school bus during a past hurricane.

• Volcanic Thermal Springs: A 15-minute drive inland takes you to the village of Wotten Waven. Soak in natural mineral pools and mud baths surrounded by tropical forest – a unique wellness experience.

• Museums & Traditions: The Dominica Museum near the cruise terminal offers a compact but rich look into the life of the indigenous Kalinago people and the island's Creole heritage.

Dining Tip: Enjoy a bowl of "Braff", a traditional fish and vegetable soup, or grab some Titiwi Accra (fish fritters) on the go. Be sure to try the local hot sauces, but use them sparingly – they are famous for their intense heat!

Basseterre welcomes you with a unique blend of Georgian architecture and Caribbean vibes. As you dock at Port Zante, you’ll see "The Circus"—a public square modeled after London’s Piccadilly Circus, complete with a Victorian-style clock tower.

Your Shore Excursion Highlights:

• Brimstone Hill Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage): Known as the "Gibraltar of the Caribbean," this massive fortress is one of the best-preserved in the Americas. It offers history combined with breathtaking panoramic views from its volcanic heights.

• St. Kitts Scenic Railway: One of the most unique attractions in the Caribbean! Ride the historic narrow-gauge train originally built for the sugar trade. It’s a wonderful way to see the island's lush landscape while enjoying local music on board.

• Romney Manor & Caribelle Batik: Wander through botanical gardens featuring a 400-year-old Saman tree and watch master artisans create intricate, hand-dyed batik fabrics using ancient techniques.

• Sun & Sand: A short drive takes you to Cockleshell Beach or South Friars Beach. Both offer golden sand, calm turquoise waters, and excellent beach bars for a classic Caribbean afternoon.

• Visit Nevis: If you prefer a more secluded experience, take a quick ferry ride to the sister island of Nevis for its tranquil atmosphere and untouched beauty.

Shopping Tip: Port Zante is a duty-free haven with over 60 shops. Whether you're looking for luxury watches, fine jewelry, or authentic Caribelle Batik souvenirs, the pastel-colored storefronts of Basseterre have you covered.

After one last breakfast aboard the Queen Mary 2, you will arrive back in the harbor of New York. Your grand Caribbean adventure concludes with disembarkation.

An organized transfer will take you comfortably from the cruise terminal to the airport, where you will begin your individual journey home. Whether you travel in Economy Class or enjoy the perks of an upgrade to Premium Economy or Business Class, we ensure your return flight meets your personal preferences. You’ll head home with a suitcase full of memories from a magical Christmas shopping trip in NYC and festive days under the Caribbean sun.