Heritage of the Portuguese
Explore authentic cruise-port experiences, review tour conditions, and request a reservation. Supplier confirmation is required.
Experience overview
Discover Goa's colorful history and learn about the heavy influence Portuguese rule had on this region's religion and architecture. See the UNESCO World Heritage site Basilica of Bom Jesus, dedicated to St. Francis Xavier; Panaji's Latin Quarter, and views of the Arabian Sea from the Dona Paula Jetty on this Portuguese Heritage tour of Goa. Starting at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will visit this church which holds the remains of the Catholic missionary St. Francis Xavier. Walk along the marble floor inlaid with precious stones and admire the exquisite paintings adorning the walls that depict scenes from St. Francis Xavier's life, then see the mausoleum containing his silver casket. Follow the guide upstairs to the art gallery to see beautiful surrealist paintings from Goan painter Dom Martin. Next, walk to the nearby Se Cathedral, also known as the St. Cathedral of Santa Catarina, dedicated to Catherine of Alexandria. This Christian saint was martyred in the early 4th century by a Roman emperor for her devout dedication to Christianity. Marvel at the facade's Portuguese Gothic-style architecture before entering the church with your guide to see the Golden Bell, one of the largest bells in Goa. Re-board the vehicle and travel to the city of Panaji to visit the historic neighborhood of Fontainhas, known as the Latin Quarter. Discover the area's Portuguese influences as you walk with your guide down narrow streets and past old, colorful villas. Pause in the small St. Sebastian Chapel to view several statues of historical figures including the Roman Catholic monk Abade Faria. Then, drive to the Dona Paula Jetty, a secluded bay where you can enjoy gorgeous views of the Mormugao Harbour and the point where the Mandovi River and Zuari River meet the Arabian Sea. Feel the gentle sea breeze and enjoy the romantic atmosphere of this hidden treasure before exploring a small local market along the waterway. In the afternoon, you can elect to stop at a popular restaurant for lunch (at your own expense) and enjoy traditional Portuguese and Goan dishes like their famous pomfret recheiado (fish stuffed with red masala). Free time is provided in the afternoon to explore the area and beaches on your own before returning back to the ship reflecting on the area's Portuguese heritage during this journey. Please Note: A tourist visa is required to debark in India. Cruise lines do not usually provide this visa, therefore, you will need to obtain one prior to your cruise.
Duration
7
Activity level
Easy
Tour style
Scenic, Cultural, Historical
Group size
Standard
Food and beverages
Not included. Food is available for purchase during the tour.
Departure point
The Cruise Ship Pier.
Recommended dress
We recommend wearing comfortable light clothing, sensible walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, and a hat. We suggest bringing rain protection if necessary, and a camera for photos.
Restrictions
Participants must be able to step in and out of the vehicle. This tour can accommodate a folding walker. A tourist visa is required to debark in India. Cruise lines do not usually provide this visa, therefore, you will need to obtain one prior to your cruise.
Information required for this tour
Due to local laws, we need to collect some required passport information from you. All passport information for each guest must be supplied and be current, or your request will be denied. PLEASE NOTE: As a general rule, passports should be valid for at least six months when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final date of travel. If your passport will expire within six months of your last date of travel, please renew it before placing your order for this tour. For more information, consult the USA Department of State's website (/go/wwr_E5UnYsyyXEIvnc48TlCKDFnRQ46iD69-v7zM7BJuSqc4y6mFWLAN8WKo1vaXO3YK9KEqFus). For each guest on the tour, please enter 1) Complete name as printed in the passport; 2) Date of Birth; 3) Passport Number; 4) Issued Date of Passport; 5) Expiration Date of Passport; 6) Nationality; 7) Sex (Male or Female). For example, please enter information in the following format: Customer 1: Robert Joseph Smith, December 5, 1957, Passport # 123456789, April 8, 2015, April 9 2025, American, Male Customer 2: Mary Ann Smith, January 15, 1959, Passport # 123456789, May 12, 2015, May 13 2025, American, Female
Worldway will collect and verify all mandatory supplier options before any confirmed booking.