DAY 1 – SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Start your day exploring historic San Diego, home to iconic food, wine, and architecture, before boarding your luxurious Crystal Cruise voyage.

DAY 2 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 3 – CABO SAN LUCAS (BAHIA CALIFORNIA SUR), MEXICO

Located on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, find Cabo San Lucas, the famed beach destination known for its atmospheric scene and idyllic setting. Step into the beating heart of Baja Peninsula, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean in a spectacular panorama of azure water, rugged cliffs, golden sands, and dramatic desert landscapes.

DAY 4 – MAZATLAN, MEXICO

A masterclass in reinvention, Mazatlán is a low-key Mexican resort on the Pacific with beaches as far as the eye can see, and a seemingly never-ending boardwalk running alongside the waves.

DAY 5 – PUERTO VALLARTA, MEXICO

A charming and buzzing seaside town that offers traditional Mexican culture with a modern twist. Second only to Acapulco when it comes to the Mexican Riviera’s leading resort cities, Puerto Vallarta is embraced by rugged tropical mountains on one side and the lovely Banderas Bay on the other.

DAY 6 to 7 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 8 – ACAJUTLA, EL SALVADOR

The seaside town of El Salvador is famous for its fishing culture and maritime heritage. In this charming town, you will be able to explore beautiful beaches, visit El Imposible National Park and taste delicious, fresh seafood dishes in the many local restaurants.

DAY 9 – SAN JUAN DEL SUR, NICARAGUA

San Juan del Sur, on the Pacific coast of Nicaragua, woos travelers and surfers alike with its colorful, 19th-century clapboard houses and crescent of silver sand. Once a sleepy fishing village, it’s now a party town, watched over by Cristo de la Misericordia, a towering statue of Christ. Hike to it up the hillside or, for a less strenuous walk, just go as far as the peach-and-white San Juan Bautista church.

DAY 10 – PUNTARENAS, COSTA RICA

Once the center of Costa Rica’s coffee-exporting boom, Puntarenas sits on a slender spit of sand that snakes into the Pacific Ocean. Still a working port, home to a charming blend of colonial buildings, chatty street vendors, and a must-visit market selling tropical fruit and handmade souvenirs, this place packs a punch.

DAY 11 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 12 – MANTA, ECUADOR

Stroll the waterfront esplanade, where you’ll not only find a refreshing breeze but a variety of tempting restaurants, bars, and street vendors selling everything from Alpaca shawls and hats to paintings and wood carvings.

DAY 13 – GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR

To most seasoned travelers, Guayaquil is known for being the gateway to the Galapagos Islands. However, there’s much to appreciate and enjoy about the “Pacific Pearl” all on its own.

DAY 14 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 15 – SALAVERRY, PERU

Found about equidistant between the Ecuadorian border and Lima, Salaverry enjoys a happy placement on the Peruvian coastline. Salaverry invites exploration with its blend of history and local life and carries a rich history that stretches back to ancient times.  Today, Salaverry stands as a blend of its ancestral roots, colonial heritage, and modern life—a destination where history whispers through its streets and cultural sites.

DAY 16 – CALLAO (LIMA), PERU 

The gateway to Lima, Callao offers visitors the perfect balance of things to see, do, and relax. The popular Punta district offers locals and visitors alike a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, most featuring the Peruvian classic, ceviche. There’s also a lovely boardwalk where you can walk off your meal while soaking-in views of the sea and surrounds.

DAY 17 TO 20 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 21 AND 22 – HANGA ROA, CHILE

Rapa Nui, the indigenous name of Easter Island, astounds with sights unlike anywhere else in the world. The creative Polynesian inhabitants of the 13th to 16th centuries built monumental stone statues, known as moai, of which 1,000 still dot the island. Carved human figures with massive heads, they represent ancestral chiefs facing inland to protect the community. Some are lined up in imposing rows (Ahu Tongariki, Ahu Nau Nau), others are staggered over hillsides and craters. What boggles the mind is how the inhabitants of this incredibly remote island, 2,300 miles (3,700km) from the Chilean coast, managed to carve and move such colossal sentinels, many weighing between 10 and 12 metric tons. Solidified volcanic ash was their material and ropes, levers, and log rollers believed to be their method. Beyond the statues, petroglyphs depicting birdmen can be seen at Orongo Ceremonial Village. Today’s occupants live in Hanga Roa village, your welcoming entry to this astonishing island.

DAY 23 AND 24 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 25 – ADAMSTOWN (PITCAIRN ISLAND), PITCAIRN ISLAND 

Of all the curious places to visit in the world, Adamstown is surely one of the most intriguing. This tiny community is the only settlement in the four volcanic Pitcairn Islands, which are strewn across hundreds of miles of the largest marine reserve in the world. Its 35 residents are almost all descendants of the 18th-century mutineers from HMS Bounty and the Tahitians who accompanied them, event that will probably be the theme of your visit.

DAY 26 AND 27 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 28 – RAROIA, FRENCH POLYNESIA

A coral island melting into a turquoise lagoon, life feels simple in Raroia in the Tuamotu archipelago. Visit a pearl farm, snorkel amid psychedelic reef fish, lounge on the sands, these are easy pleasures.

DAY 29 – FAKARAVA, FRENCH POLYNESIA

Few islands melt the heart like the 100 or so that make up French Polynesia. Cast adrift in the South Pacific, midway between California and Australia, this large atoll is a semi-autonomous territory of France, part of the Tuamotu archipelago, northeast of the main island of Tahiti. Together with six neighboring islands, it proudly bears the UNESCO stamp on its biosphere reserve, which is home to an astonishing array of coral and other marine life, from colorful clouds of surgeonfish to sleek manta rays.

DAY 30 – RANGIROA, FRENCH POLYNESIA

A mesmerizing atoll in French Polynesia, where endless turquoise lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and a laid-back island atmosphere provide the ultimate South Pacific sanctuary. As the second largest atoll in the world, this ring-shaped island is known for being a popular spot for scuba diving due to its diverse marine wildlife. Situated in French Polynesia, this tropical paradise offers many other activities such as dolphin watching, surfing, fishing or visiting the peaceful villages of Avatoru and Tiputa.

DAY 31 AND 32 – TAHITI (PAPEETE), FRENCH POLYNESIA

The bustling capital of French Polynesia, where vibrant markets, lively nightlife, and a fusion of Polynesian and French cultures come together in the heart of picturesque Tahiti. Stroll along the wide waterfront-boulevard and marvel and the gorgeous waters and perfect beaches. Tahitian locals and shopkeepers welcome you as you explore the carefree spirit of their island.

DAY 33 – MOOREA ISLAND, FRENCH POLYNESIA

An enchanting South Pacific haven in French Polynesia, where jagged volcanic peaks, lush emerald valleys, and crystal-clear lagoons create the perfect setting for an island escape. The idyllic volcanic island of Moorea is a place rich in untouched nature and enchanting landscapes. Known for its unique heart shape, the island is surrounded by white-sand beaches and stunning greenery to enjoy as you take part in tourist excursions and other outdoor activities.

DAY 34 – RAIATEA, FRENCH POLYNESIA

This halcyon island is as spiritual as it is beautiful. The second-largest of the Society Islands after Tahiti, Raiatea is the ancient ancestral home of the Polynesian people and, legend has it, the birthplace of gods. While neighboring Bora Bora is a magnet for visitors, Raiatea has a serenity that’s unmatched, thanks in no small part to its sacred place in Polynesian history and culture.

DAY 35 AND 36 – BORA BORA (SOCIETY ISLANDS) FRENCH POLYNESIA

Snorkel and dive in the stunning turquoise lagoons of Bora Bora, known for its white sand beaches and luxurious overwater bungalows. Escape into the marvels of this island paradise. Bora Bora has been called the most beautiful island in the world with its tranquil lagoons, sugar-white beaches and exotic flora and fauna.

DAY 37 AND 38 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 39 – PAGO PAGO, AMERICAN SAMOA

It’s all about the welcome in the beautiful port of Pago Pago (pronounced Pango Pango), on the shores of a deep natural harbor in the shadow of jungle-cloaked Mount Pioa – more lyrically known as Rainmaker Mountain.

DAY 40 – DATE LINE LOSE A DAY

APIA, SAMOA ISLANDS

Cradled along the northern shore of Upolu, picturesque Apia’s thatched-roof fales blend into the emerald-hued countryside. Jagged mountains rise above deserted beaches where trade winds sigh on coconut palms. Western Samoa’s friendly, carefree islanders will welcome you to their bountiful homeland and proudly show you the former home of their adopted son, Robert Louis Stevenson.

DAY 41 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 42 – SUVA, FIJI

Explore Suva, Fiji’s enchanting capital, where a kaleidoscope of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and a fusion of Fijian, Indian, and Pacific cultures merge to create a uniquely vibrant urban experience.

DAY 43 – LAUTOKA, FIJI

Lautoka, known as the `Sugar City,` is a bustling port town located on the beautiful island of Viti Levu in Fiji. As you step foot in Lautoka, you are greeted by warm tropical breezes and a vibrant atmosphere. Explore the bustling markets, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and fragrances of fresh fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts. Discover the pristine white sandy beaches nearby, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and simply basking in the sun. Lautoka invites you to embrace the beauty of Fiji and experience the warm hospitality of its people.DAY 44 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 45 – PORT VILA, VANUATU

Port Vila, the vibrant capital city of Vanuatu, is a tropical paradise that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Nestled along the shores of Efate Island, Port Vila offers a unique blend of lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters teeming with marine life. Explore the bustling local markets, where you can immerse yourself in the flavors and aromas of fresh produce and local handicrafts. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant coral reefs and hidden underwater caves.

DAY 46 – LIFOU, NEW CALEDONIA

Discover the island’s beautiful beaches or explore the forest and secret grotto.  Shaded by palms and other native trees, they front the warm, crystal clear waters of the Coral Sea. Spend the day snorkelling, swimming, or just lying on the soft, white sand.

DAY 47 AND 48 – NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA

The vibrant capital of New Caledonia, where French elegance meets South Pacific charm in a stunning blend of soft sand beaches, diverse marine life, and a rich fusion of cultures.

DAY 49 – PINE ISLAND, NEW CALEDONIA

There is a natural pool for swimming and snorkeling, the cave grotto of a local queen to investigate, and a beachfront statue of St Maurice encircled by totem poles serves as a reminder of both indigenous and colonial influences.

DAY 50 AND 51 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 52 – BAY OF ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND

Stunning landscapes, sparkling waters and tropical weather are just some of the aspects that define the magnificent Bay of Islands. This region of New Zealand is a popular spot for tourists and locals, who are drawn to the incredible scenery of its green and paradisiac coastline.

DAY 53 AND 54 – AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand’s vibrant cosmopolitan, Auckland has a spectacular waterfront and iconic blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty.  This vibrant city is a gateway to New Zealand’s natural and cultural treasures: great natural beauty, friendly people, magnificent glacier-studded mountain ranges, sculpted fjords, pristine beaches, lush rainforest, an endless array of sporting activities.

DAY 55 – TAURANGA, NEW ZEALAND

Delve into Tauranga, New Zealand’s picturesque coastal gem, where golden sand beaches, rolling green hills, and a blend of Maori and contemporary cultures create a captivating town. The spectacular Bay of Plenty on New Zealand’s North Island is home to the resort town of Tauranga. Known for its fine restaurants, boutiques and galleries, the city is also a hot spot for water sports and a gateway to nearby attractions, such as the geothermal wonders of Rotorua. At the southern end of Tauranga’s harbor lies the relaxed beach town of Mount Maunganui, named after its distinctive peak, Mauao, which towers 750 feet above the town’s white-sand surf.

DAY 56 – NAPIER, NEW ZEALAND

Nestled on the Pacific coastline of New Zealand’s North Island is charming Napier, a town with much to boast about. Napier is known for producing wool, growing fruit, cultivating grapes and making wine.

DAY 57 – WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND

Arrive in Wellington and its ambitious spirit is clear to see in the skyline of shiny towers. Yet New Zealand’s capital is a friendly place with an independent air, where just wandering around the streets is a pleasure, stopping for a great coffee or a glass of locally brewed craft beer.

DAY 58 – LYTTELTON (CHRISTCHURCH), NEW ZEALAND

The historic port of Lyttelton serves as the gateway to Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island. Traditionally considered the most English of New Zealand’s cities, there is much to explore in vibrant Christchurch, from its neo-Gothic stone buildings and beautiful botanical gardens, to its picturesque Avon River lined by graceful willows.

DAY 59 – DUNEDIN (PORT CHALMERS), NEW ZEALAND

Located in the south of New Zealand’s South Island, Dunedin is a place rich in natural attractions and historic monuments. In this captivating city, you can visit iconic Larnach Castle to sample its diverse local beers and discover rare local fauna such as the charming little blue penguins.

DAY 60 – CRUISING DUSKY SOUND, NEW ZEALAND

Dusky Sound, also known as Tamatea, is a fjord in the southwest region of New Zealand’s South Island. Though its name is due to its usually gloomy weather, it is home to strikingly unique landscapes and diverse wildlife, including dolphins, whales and its charming Fjordland penguins.

CRUISING DOUBTFUL SOUND, NEW ZEALAND

Take in the stunning views of New Zealand’s deepest fjord, Doubtful Sound. Also named Patea, this remote fjord is surrounded by dense rainforest and can be accessed only from the small town of Manapouri. Rich in diverse flora and fauna, these landscapes will leave you stunned.

CRUISING MILFORD SOUND, NEW ZEALAND

The most accessible fjord in New Zealand has also become one of the country’s most recognizable landscapes. Milford Sound’s majestic mountains, impressive waterfalls and captivating cliffs are the main attraction of this highly photogenic area, where you can also participate in activities such as kayaking, fishing or sailing.

DAY 61 AND 62 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 63 – BURNIE, AUSTRALIA

While nearly half of Tasmania is protected national parks and World Heritage Sites (and home to creatures from platypus to fairy penguins), Burnie is known for its industrial past – a city of farmers, mill workers and craftsmen who built a prosperous town and a reputation for quality.

DAY 64 – MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

Experience Melbourne, Australia’s cosmopolitan cultural hub, where a labyrinth of laneways, world-class dining, vibrant street art, and a thriving arts scene meld together in a city that captivates the senses.  Dynamic, sporty and arty, it still maintains an air of old-world grace with spacious tree-lined boulevards and expansive parks.

DAY 65 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 66 – SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

Discover Sydney, Australia’s most iconic city home to architectural wonders such as the Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge. Sydney is an energetic and exciting metropolis where nightlife, shopping and fine restaurants compare favorably with the finest the world has to offer. Despite its modern advances, Sydney has lovingly cherished its heritage, for this was the birthplace of the Australian nation.

DAY 67 – NEWCASTLE, AUSTRALIA

Understandably, in this part of the world Sydney gets all the attention but there’s another city in New South Wales – the second-oldest in Australia, in fact – that’s well worth checking out. Stroll around the compact, cosmopolitan center and discover street art, chic galleries, a magnificent Gothic Revival cathedral, and the heritage property Miss Porter’s House, which gives a fascinating insight into life here in the early 20th century.

DAY 68 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 69 – BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

Sydney might have its beaches, Melbourne great shops and restaurants, and Queensland is famous for its coastline but Brisbane is blessed by a mix of all three, albeit on a smaller scale. This city has a dynamic culinary scene, with local specialties including Moreton Bay Bugs, a lightly seasoned barbequed lobster cooked in its shell.

DAY 70 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 71 – AIRLIE BEACH, AUSTRALIA

Airlie Beach is best experienced below the waves. The port is one of the main gateways for the Great Barrier Reef, so if underwater adventures surrounded by reef sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, and countless colorful fish are on your bucket list then look no further. . For those who prefer their wildlife to be above the ground, Conway National Park offers tropical rainforests, waterfalls, and 447 native species.

DAY 72 AND 73 – CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA

Located at the point where two UNESCO World Heritage sites – the Wet Tropics of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef – gently curve to the shoreline, Cairns is graced with inspiring natural attractions in all directions. Active discovery is enjoyed with kite surfing, swimming, snorkeling and Zodiac excursions; beyond the coast are mountains, rainforests, eucalyptus, waterfalls, lakes, rugged ravines and farmlands fed by freshwater streams.

DAY 74 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 75 – ALOTAU, PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Tucked just below the equator on the eastern shores of New Guinea (the other half belongs to Indonesia), the island nation of Papua New Guinea is home to beautiful tropical landscapes, azure waters, intricate coral reefs and exotic sealife.

DAY 76 – PORT MORESBY, PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Longboats ply the waters of the Sepik river and tribal traditions still pepper everyday life in the rainforest-draped mountains, Papua New Guinea is a destination that delights the truly adventurous.  Wander beneath the rainforest canopy of the city’s Nature Park to see the giant flightless cassowary and the rainbow plumes of the male Raggiana bird-of-paradise, the island’s national symbol. There is some of the best diving in the world off these shores, too, especially around the shipwrecks from World War II from hard-fought battles for this important strategic territory.

DAY 77 AND 78 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 79 – DARWIN, AUSTRALIA

Many travelers will think of Darwin as the jumping-off point for The Kimberley, the port is, of course, the gateway to the Northern Territory’s famous 1,800-million-year-old red rocks, but Darwin has many other things to offer the day-tripper. Two of Australia’s most spectacular National Parks (Kakadu and Litchfield) are within an easy drive of the city, so even if you don’t want to get the full Kimberley experience, the ancient rock formations, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, jumping crocodiles and breathtaking gorges give a bite-sized version of the region’s natural diversity. If you prefer to stay in the city, expect a multicultural experience. Darwin is closer to Jakarta than Canberra, so local markets, cafes, and restaurants overflow with Asian influence.

DAY 80 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 81 – KOMODO ISLAND, INDONESIA

Ringed by steep hillsides that fluctuate from jade green to rust red as the seasons shift, Komodo Island is a land of curious colors… and dragons. The largest island within the Komodo National Park, Komodo sports sandy beaches painted pink by the red coral that thrives on the reefs and locals who relish welcoming visitors. Besides the world’s largest lizards, other wild residents include wild boars, deer, water buffalo, cockatoos and macaques.

DAY 82 – BALI, INDONESIA

A picturesque island province in Indonesia, Bali is known for its stunning beaches, lush tropical landscapes, eternal rice fields, and rich Hindu heritage. Bali is so beautiful that the natives believe heaven will be just like home, and touring this island paradise, it’s easy to see why.

DAY 83 – BALI, INDONESIA

Here are mysterious volcanic lakes and jungle-shrouded volcanoes, wondrous ancient temples, fabulously creative painters and wood-carvers, and the legendary dancers who re-enact the stories of their Hindu deities.

DAY 84 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 85 – SEMARANG (GATEWAY FOR BOROBODUR), INDONESIA

Located on the north coast of the island of Java, Indonesia, Semarang is the capital of its province, playing a prominent role as both busy commercial center and important cultural destination.

DAY 86 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 87 AND 88 – SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE

Singapore is a vibrant and multicultural city-state located in Southeast Asia, famous for its architectural style, foodie culture, and hawker markets. Temples, mosques and churches stand as serene reminders of the varied migrations that have graced its history. Discover the mansions and polo greens of colonial Singapore, the mystique of Chinatown, and the heady aroma of spices along Arab Street.

DAY 89 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 90 – KOH SAMUI, THAILAND

This emerald isle off Thailand’s southeast coast, ringed by lovely beaches and gorgeous bays, enjoys both the fun-loving nature of the Thai people, and the peaceful serenity of Buddhism. Visit the beautiful waterfalls at Hin Lut and Na Muang, marvel at the enormous Buddha statue on Fan Isle, or just listen to the breeze whisper in the leaves of a coconut plantation.

DAY 91 AND 92 – LAEM CHABANG (BANGKOK), THAILAND

A fascinating city devoted to tradition and driven toward modernity, Bangkok has long been a traveler’s paradise with its heavenly weather, welcoming hospitality, and mouth-watering cuisine – the vibrant city is world-renowned for its street food and an impressive roster of Michelin-starred restaurants.

DAY 93 – KO KUT, THAILAND 

It’s all about the beach on Ko Kut – some say it’s the most beautiful island in Thailand. This is a place to spend the day wiggling your toes in the white powder-soft sands. But if you must insist on exploring beyond your beach towel, take a refreshing hike to the Nam Tok Khlong Chao waterfall, go kayaking through the mangroves, or there’s rewarding snorkeling and scuba diving in the clear waters off these shores.

DAY 94 – PHU QUOC, VIETNAM

Prepare to tuck into delicious food on Phu Quoc, especially if you keep it local – blue swimming crab caught nearby, a grind of pepper grown in the fields, and a dash of what many regard as the best nuoc mam fish sauce brewed in the whole country.

DAY 95 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 96 AND 97 – HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM

Ho Chi Minh City, known universally and affectionately by residents as Saigon, offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s eventful past and its hopeful future. The city has a prosperous air of thriving activity, as rice boats float down the waterways and streets bustle with flavorful markets. Explore the sacred temples, French colonial buildings, and vestiges of pivotal events.

DAY 98 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 99 – MUARA, BRUNEI

Located in Brunei, about 17 miles from the capital, Muara is a bustling port town that provides a glimpse into the country’s maritime industry and trade. Brunei is known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, vibrant flora and fauna, as well as its rich history, cultural heritage, and impressive modern development, while being world renowned for its lush landscapes and pristine beaches.

DAY 100 – KOTA KINABALU, MALAYSIA

Kota Kinabalu , commonly known as KK, faces the South China Sea on the northwest coast of Borneo. As the state of Sabah’s capital, it is a sprawling and busy city. Situated between the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park and Mount Kinabalu, it is a place for snorkeling, hiking and simply watching the ebb and flow of nature.

DAY 101 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 102 – BORACAY (MALAY), PHILIPPINES

The island of Boracay is the perfect place for those who want to spend time relaxing amid stunning scenery. Apart from its beautiful beaches and outstanding nature, there’s also the opportunity to learn about local culture by visiting the Motag Living Museum and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.

DAY 103 – MANILA, PHILIPPINES

Set amid the forest-green splendor of Luzon Island is bustling Manila, the second largest city in Southeast Asia, with its towering skyscrapers and remarkable joie de vivre. Yet amid the big-city excitement are oases of calm: lush tropical parks, magnificent cathedrals and dramatic Spanish forts. North of the city, mountains beckon with their spectacular rice terraces, while across Manila Bay stands Mount Mariveles, a dormant volcano studded with scenic hiking trails.

DAY 104 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 105 AND 106 – HONG KONG, CHINA

Famous for its bustling vivacity and countless skyscrapers, Hong Kong is a unique place with endless things to do. Diveinto the heritage of the city in the Hong Kong Museum of History, explore its many shopping centers, andtaste-temptingstreet food at the famous Temple Street Night Market. Don’t forget to admire the panoramic city views from VictoriaPeak.?

DAY 107 – XIAMEN, CHINA

Easy-going Xiamen is China’s capital of cool, decorated in street art and populated by young designers, with a bustling shopping and café scene on Zhongshan Road. Draped across two islands and part of the mainland across the strait from Taiwan, this is also tea country, close to cultivation hotspots such the tea gardens of Anxi County, and with a long history as a center of tea trading – in the 19th century, the British called it Amoy.

DAY 108 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 109 TO 111 – SHANGHAI, CHINA

Shanghai, located just inside the mouth of the great Yangtze River, marks the point where Asia’s longest and most important river completes its 3,400-mile journey to the Pacific. The city’s unique location is the source of its existence and has determined what it is today. Until 1842, Shanghai was merely a tiny fishing village. Following the first Opium War, Shanghai became a treaty port, which opened the city to foreign influence and resulted in the development of numerous British, French and American colonial settlements within the city and along the Yangtze River. Today, Shanghai is the center of China’s economic resurgence and its skyline attests to this development in the form of towering skyscrapers, brightly lit commercial high-rises and the unsettling Oriental Pearl Tower.

DAY 112 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 113 – BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is a dynamic blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and bustling urban life. Situated on the southeastern coast, Busan is so much more than a sum of its parts; it’s a captivating mix of historic charm, modernity, and stunning, natural beauty. The city is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as local favorite Haeundae Beach, perfect for long strolls along the promenade or the more nostalgic Dadaepo Beach, where golden sands meet the turquoise sea.

DAY 114 – HIROSHIMA, JAPAN

For ever associated with the atomic bomb attack at the end of WWII, the moving monuments of Peace Park are what draw most visitors to Hiroshima. This resilient city has reinvented itself as a vibrant Japanese destination with a determinedly modern and international outlook. Youthful and fun, this is the place to dine on okonomiyaki – variously topped savoury cabbage and pork pancakes.

DAY 115 – DAY AT SEA

DAY 116 AND 117 – KOBE, JAPAN

Kobe beckons travelers with its magnetic blend of history, nature, and urban sophistication. This port city entices explorers with its unique charm, offering a seamless fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. Wander through the atmospheric Kitano district, where beautifully preserved Western-style homes known as `Ijinkan,` that once belonged to foreign settlers during the Meiji and Taisho periods.

DAY 118 – SHIMIZU, JAPAN

DAY 119 AND 120 – TOKYO, JAPAN

Japan’s capital, Tokyo, and its bustling port of Yokohama form a vast urban complex that boasts a unique combination of energy and orderliness. Fusing the vitality of a modern metropolis with the stately elegance of yesteryear, Tokyo is truly unique. From the timeless beauty of the Meiji Shrine to the glittering Ginza district and impressive Tokyo Tower, this international giant is a complex blend of East and West. Houses of wood and paper stand beside towering steel skyscrapers, while kimono-clad women stroll beside teenagers who have created a fashion all their own. The timeless Imperial Palace bears testament to Japan’s enduring traditions. Despite encroaching urban development, it continues to exist in a verdant parkland of isolation. Images of the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo, which is home to more than 11 million people, will create memories of a lifetime.

DAY 121 – HITACHINAKA, JAPAN

This young city on the shores of the Pacific was created from two former towns just 30 years ago. While you’re by the ocean, take a stroll on the golden sands of Ajigaura and Hiraisio beaches or go crabbing on the rocky shore a little further north, where you’ll also find plenty of fossils amid the geological layers dating back 75 million years. It’s all about the sea here, so it’s no surprise the city is home to a renowned fish market, Nakamitano, where chefs prepare spanking fresh sashimi and sushi from the daily catch. Yet there’s one local snack that comes from the land, slices of sun-dried sweet potato – an irresistible souvenir.

DAY 122 – DAY ST SEA

DAY 123 – AOMORI, JAPAN

DAY 124 – HAKODATE (HOKKAIDO), JAPAN

On the northern shores of Honshu, Maizuru commands glorious views across the bay and its islands, a spectacle you can truly appreciate from the top of the city’s Goro Sky Tower. But this place has an intriguing history to discover, too. There are temples to marvel at, too, such as Kongo-in with its ancient, three-storied pagoda, and, for contrast, head west to the Amanohashidate sandbar, a two-mile-long isthmus with white sands backed by pine trees.

DAY 125 – KUSHIRO, JAPAN

If Japan conjures up images of sprawling mega-cities and neon-decked skyscrapers, the northernmost island of Hokkaido offers a very different experience. Kushiro, on the east coast, is most famous for its natural landscapes, particularly the Kushiro Marsh – home to deer, sea eagles, and the iconic Japanese crane, which overwinters on the island.

DAY 126 TO 130 – DAY AT SEA

DATELINE LOSE A DAY

DAY 131 – KODIAK ISLAND, ALASKA, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

You’ll find a unique sub-species of brown bear and mainland grizzly reaching a paw into a salmon-rich river or ambling about the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge – its pristine forests and meadows explain why Kodiak’s moniker is the Emerald Isle. This could equally be called the fishing island, with halibut, salmon, and king crab all found in the waters lapping its shores. And don’t forget the whales – this is one of Alaska’s best places to watch them.

DAY 132 – HOMER, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

With snow-ringed peaks and the icy-blue waters of Kachemak Bay as a backdrop to paintbox-bright wooden buildings on stilts, Homer is known as a creative hub for good reason. The wilderness is never too far away in Alaska: here, sightings could include bears digging for clams at low tide and eagles soaring overhead.

DAY 133 – SEWARD (ANCHORAGE, ALASKA), UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Embark on a journey to the breathtaking wilderness of Seward, Alaska. This charming coastal town, nestled at the edge of the Kenai Peninsula, offers a rare and unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of Kenai Fjords National Park, featuring towering glaciers, and pristine coastal fjords.

DAY 134 – CRUISING HUBBARD GLACIER, ALASKA, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

The vast and wild landscapes of the Hubbard Glacier offer breathtaking scenery. Located in the south central region of Alaska, these icy waters offer opportunities to catch sight of the regional humpback whales.

DAY 135 – SKAGWAY (ALASKA), UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

In its heyday, this frontier town was the largest in Alaska – its population went from 2 to 10,000 in a single year during the height of the gold boom.

DAY 136 – SITKA (ALASKA), UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Arrive at Russia’s former New World capital. This historic island chain features Sitka Historic National Park, green-tufted landscapes, and St. Michael’s Cathedral, built in the 1800’s. This is an unusual stop for travelers, so enjoy a rare and unforgettable experience.

DAY 137 – ICY STRAIT POINT, ALASKA, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

The native Tlingit people might run the port of Icy Strait Point on Chichagof Island, but this is a place where wildlife reigns supreme. The Spasski River Valley has one of the highest densities of coastal brown bears in the world, while the waters surrounding the island teem with humpback whales as well as sea otters and sea lions.

DAY 138 – KETCHIKAN, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Paddle a kayak on sheltered waters, take a floatplane to a remote mountain lake or try your hand at sportfishing in Ketchikan, salmon capital of the world and a paradise for fishermen and nature-lovers alike.

DAY 139 – SEYMOUR NARROWS (BRITISH COLUMBIA), CANADA

This five-kilometer (three-mile) waterway between British Columbia and Vancouver Island is a small section of the bigger Discovery Passage strait. Named after the Royal Navy officer George Seymour, the strait is known for its narrowness and intense tidal currents.

DAY 140 – VANCOUVER, CANADA

Discover the vibrancy of this British Columbia cosmopolitan. Vancouver has eclectic neighbors to explore, exquisite seafood, and the largest natural park in North America.