View the stunning, almost otherworldly landscapes of Utah’s canyon country while exploring a collection of extraordinary national and state parks. The geological wonders include whimsical red rock formations, graceful natural arches and sandstone cliffs bathed in the warm light of the desert sun. To enhance the adventure, you will hike through a stretch of barren wilds, where you will come upon ancient petroglyphs that the indigenous people carved into the rocks. The Mormon influence will also be evident as you browse one of their 19th-century desert settlements.
DAY 1
After arriving at the Salt Lake City International Airport and collecting your luggage, you will meet a local representative for the transfer to the Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City. This four-star boutique hotel in the historic downtown offers modern accommodations with unique amenities such as in-room spa services and an evening wine hour.
After checking into your room, the remainder of the day and evening will be on your own. Check-in at the hotel is 3:00pm. Although every effort will be made to have rooms available sooner, this cannot be guaranteed.
DAY 2
Following breakfast at the hotel and check out, you will board a private vehicle for a visit to the Salt Lake Temple. The grandeur of its Gothic architecture crafted from gleaming quartz monzonite is breathtaking. As a sacred space for worship and spiritual reflection for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the temple holds deep religious significance. The lush gardens with meticulously maintained lawns of Temple Square create a picturesque setting and serene ambiance, perfect for a moment of peace and reflection.
Continuing on, you will enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant before leaving Salt Lake City. During the four-hour ride that follows, you will pass diverse landscapes that include ruggedly beautiful Price Canyon, the vast expanse of San Rafael Swell and the striking red rock formations that will signal the arrival in Moab.
Before long, you will check into the Hoodoo Moab, a downtown hotel that offers a unique blend of modern luxury and Western charm. You will have time to unwind in your room, enjoy the stunning red rock views and relax by the heated outdoor pool. With its prime location near Arches National Park, the hotel is the perfect base for desert adventures.
As evening falls, you will head out for dinner at the Desert Bistro, a casually upscale restaurant with a gourmet continental menu infused with Southwestern flair.
Following dinner, you will return to the hotel for the evening.
DAY 3
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you will embark on an unforgettable full-day guided tour of the Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. This breathtaking landscape sculpted by time is distinguished by the geological wonders of Utah's canyon country.
You will behold the Delicate Arch, a naturally formed sandstone sculpture that seems to defy gravity, rising majestically against the backdrops of the rugged landscape. Its elegant curves and towering presence capture the essence of the American Southwest.
You will also see Park Avenue, a breathtaking corridor of towering red rock formations that rise like ancient skyscrapers, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring canyon. One of the highlights will be strolling along a trail surrounded by sheer cliffs, sculpted pinnacles and majestic monoliths, all bathed in the warm hues of the desert sun.
Perched upon the edge of a dramatic cliff, Mesa Arch frames the vast expanse of Canyonlands National Park like a natural window to another world.
At times, you will stand near the edge of other sandstone cliffs, some rising as high as 1,000 feet, with panoramic views stretching to the horizon. You will enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch in this Island in the Sky district before continuing on to the hotel, with stops along the way at the most visually dramatic lookouts.
Dinner will be on your own this evening.
DAY 4
Enjoy another hearty breakfast at the hotel before checking out and re-boarding the private vehicle for the drive to Goblin Valley State Park. Along the way, you will traverse vast landscapes that offer breathtaking views of towering sandstone formations and expansive desert vistas.
Nature’s beauty will be on full display in the surreal landscape of Goblin Valley State Park. You will first stop in the Valley of the Goblins, an otherworldly setting with thousands of whimsical rock formations, known as “goblins.” These mushroom-shaped formations, sculpted by millions of years of erosion, stand like silent sentinels.
You will stop for photos at the iconic rock formation Three Sisters on the way to Observation Point for a panoramic view of the entire valley, allowing us to take in the vast expanse of goblins.
Depending on the timing, you will stop for lunch inside the Goblin State Valley Park or during the next stop in the town of Torrey.
Later in the afternoon, you will arrive at Cougar Ridge Lodge, where you will spend the evening. Nestled amidst the stunning rock formations of Torrey, Cougar Ridge Lodge provides an idyllic retreat for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike. The elegantly designed accommodations feature panoramic views of the rugged terrain and variety of ranch animals. You may also enjoy the cozy lounge and outdoor spaces for stargazing under the clear desert sky.
As evening falls, you will gather to indulge in a chef-catered dinner at the lodge before enjoying the remainder of the evening on your own.
DAY 5
Following breakfast at the lodge, you will board a private vehicle and set off on a scenic drive through Capital Reef National Park. In this desert setting, the earth’s history is written in vibrant layers of rock and the sky stretches endlessly above. It is a place to connect with the natural world, find peace in its beauty and be inspired by its grandeur. During the day’s adventure, you will discover the highlights of this magical destination.
You may begin at Panorama Point, where the morning light of day paints the sandstone cliffs in hues of gold and amber. Sweeping vistas stretch across its sea of red rock formations and rugged canyons.
You will continue to the Capital Reef Scenic Drive, a journey through vibrant landscapes. Along the way, you will hike to a majestic natural arch known as the Hickman Bridge. This impressive formation stands 125 feet tall, spans 133 feet across and offers stunning views of the red rock landscape. Expect to encounter petroglyphs, the ancient rock carvings that the Fremont people created. These fascinating stone etchings depict human figures, bighorn sheep, and other animals, offering a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of this unique culture.
You will also explore the depth of the Grand Wash, an impressively deep and sheer-walled wash that cuts through the Navajo sandstone layer in the deepest section. Its towering canyon walls lead to hidden tanks and pioneer inscriptions.
About midday, you will stop for a gourmet picnic lunch. You will then continue walking through the Fruita Rural Historic District, a picturesque valley surrounded by red rock cliffs and verdant groves of cherries, apricots, peaches and apples that fill the air with a sweet fragrance. This former Mormon settlement features historical buildings dating back to 1895. Feel free to pick fresh fruit from the lush orchards and visit the charming Gifford House for the homemade treats.
The day's outdoor adventure will end at Sunset Point. The short, easy hike to this viewpoint will reward you with a awe-inspiring display of nature's beauty, where the sky transforms into a stunning canvas of fiery colors as the sun dips below the horizon.
As evening falls, you will enjoy a delightful dinner before retiring at the hotel for the night.
DAY 6
Following breakfast at the hotel and check-out, you will settle in for a transfer of about 3.5 hours to the airport in Salt Lake City and then fly to San Diego. Upon arrival, you will transfer to the Kona Kai resort. Perched on picturesque Shelter Island, Kona Kai is a serene setting where the charm of old-world California meets modern luxury. The resort’s lush gardens, sparkling pools and panoramic views of San Diego Bay create a tranquil haven.
After check-in, the remainder of the afternoon will be yours to enjoy the hotel amenities or to explore the area independently before the farewell dinner at the hotel.
DAY 7
After breakfast at the hotel and check out, you will transfer to the port to board the cruise ship.
Land Program Details Step by Step
•The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Programs including flights are subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control.
•Itineraries with the most up-to-date details will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive one last final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review that Welcome Letter and your final itinerary carefully for any further amendments.
•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
•Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered no-shows and their hotel space released.
Extra Nights
•All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the hotel that is used on the FIRST NIGHT of your land program
•If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 3:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until Day 2 of the program.
•If you have an early-arriving flight, you may wish to book an extra night as your room will not be ready for occupation until approximately 3:00pm.
•If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.
Meet and Greet and transfers
•Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs and the luggage claim area.
•Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.
•Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of the land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.
•If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.
DAY 1
TBA Arrive at the Salt Lake City International Airport
TBA Transfer to the Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City
3:00pm Check in at the Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City
Rest of the day at your leisure
Overnight at the Hotel Monaco or a similar hotel
DAY 2
8:00am Breakfast at the Hotel Monaco
9:00am Check out from the Hotel Monaco
9:30am Visit the Salt Lake Temple
11:00am Lunch in Salt Lake City
12:30am Transfer to the Hoodoo Moab hotel
4:30pm Check-in at the Hoodoo Moab hotel
7:00pm Dinner at the Desert Bistro
Overnight at the Hoodoo Moab or a similar hotel
DAY 3
8:00am Breakfast at the Hoodoo Moab
9:00am Transfer to the Arches National Park
9:30am Begin full day touring Arches and Canyonlands National Parks
5:30pm Return to the Hoodoo Moab
7:00pm Dinner
Overnight at the Hoodoo Moab or a similar hotel
DAY 4
8:00am Breakfast at the Hoodoo Moab
9:00am Check out from the hotel
9:30am Drive to Goblin Valley State Park
11:00am Tour Goblin Valley State Park
1:00pm Lunch (location TBA)
2:00pm Drive to Cougar Ridge Lodge
3:40pm Check-in at Cougar Ridge Lodge
6:00pm Catered dinner at Cougar Ridge Lodge
Overnight at Cougar Ridge Lodge or a similar hotel
DAY 5
8:00am Breakfast at Cougar Ridge Lodge
9:00am Depart for Capital Reef National Park
9:30am Tour Capital Reef National Park
12:30pm Lunch in Capital Reef National Park
1:30pm Continue exploring Capital Reef National Park
4:00pm Return to Cougar Ridge Lodge
6:00pm Dinner (location TBA)
Overnight at Cougar Ridge Lodge or a similar hotel
DAY 6
8:00am Breakfast at Cougar Ridge Lodge
9:00am Transfer to the Salt Lake City Airport
TBA Fly to San Diego
TBA Transfer from the airport to the Kona Kai Resort
TBA Group farewell dinner
Overnight at the Kona Kai Resort or a similar hotel
DAY 7
8:00am Breakfast at the Kona Kai Resort
11:00am Check-out of the hotel
11:15am Transfer to the cruise ship terminal
11:45am Arrive at the ship for embarkation
Expected Weather
Daily average high temperature is 43 degrees Fahrenheit/6 degrees Celsius and daily average low is 38 degrees Fahrenheit/3 degrees Celsius.
What to Bring
Dress in warm layered clothing and bring comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, a down coat, hiking socks, gloves, long pants, hat, insect repellent, sunscreen and a camera.
Local Currency
U.S. dollars are accepted in all locations.
Electricity
In the USA, the supply voltage is 110V.
Luggage
Maximum 2 pieces of luggage per person; a maximum of 40 lbs. per piece.
Documents and Visa Requirements
A foreign national traveling to the United States for tourism needs a valid passport and a visitor visa unless qualifying for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.
Aircraft type (subject to change)
All flights will be scheduled on commercial aircrafts, typically a Boeing 737, Boeing 787 Dreamliner or Airbus A320.
Hotels
Kimpton Hotel Monaco
15 W 200 S
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Hoodoo Moab
111 N 100 W
Moab, UT 84532
Cougar Ridge Lodge
800 S 600 E
Torrey, UT 84775
Kona Kai Resort
1551 Shelter Island Drive
San Diego, CA 92106
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.
Please Note
Sites and the order of visits are subject to change due to weather or other operational influences. All activities in this itinerary require some degree of light hiking on uneven, rocky surfaces. This program is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs or with walking disabilities. Some activities in this program are not suitable for guests with back or neck problems or for expectant mothers.
Program Includes for guests:
•1 night at Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City (King Premium City View) or similar
•2 nights at Hoodoo Moab (Traditional King) or similar
•2 nights at Cougar Ridge Lodge (Two-bedroom Casita) or similar
•1 night at Kona Kai Resort (Marina View King) or similar
•Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
•Daily breakfast, beginning on Day 2
•Lunch on Days 2-7, including non-alcoholic beverages
•Dinner on Days 2, 4, 5 and 6 including non-alcoholic beverages
•Touring in luxury private vehicles
•Local English-speaking tour guide on transfers and sightseeing tours
•Porterage at hotels, airports and pier (based on 2 pieces of luggage per person)
•Bottled water daily on tours
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights independently of the cruise line are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.
Program Excludes for guests:
•Gratuities for guides
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service
•Alcoholic beverages
•Meals not specifically listed
•Personal expenses such as telephone calls, gift shop purchases, spa treatments and laundry
•Entrance fees to any sites not mentioned
•Camera fees
•Visa fees
•Any other services not mentioned above
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel and natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change.
Land programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.
