East Coast USA & Canada Highlights

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply

• 7 nights centrally located quality hotel accommodation

• 10-night Canada & New England cruise with MSC
• Sail aboard the incredible 'MSC Meraviglia' ship

• Enjoy 35 meals including all meals while cruising

• English-speaking tour guides
• Airline and cruise taxes and surcharges
• Transport
• Transportation by private A/C coach & subway

• Arrive Early: Arrive up to 30 days before your tour starts. (Does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stay Behind: Return up to 30 days after your tour concludes. (Does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Cabin Upgrades: Cabin upgrades are available. (See checkout for details)
• Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class. (See checkout for details)
Please note: Extra charges may apply. See the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details.

Today you'll depart from Australia for New York City, USA.

When you arrive, make your way to your centrally located Manhattan accommodation, where you can check in and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Manhattan is the vibrant heart of New York City. This iconic borough is a global cultural, art, entertainment, and commerce hub. From towering skyscrapers to world-renowned landmarks, Manhattan offers an exhilarating mix of experiences that will leave you in awe.

Please note:

Standard check-in time is 3 pm, and if you arrive early, luggage storage will be available at reception until check-in. Some flights may arrive at Newark Liberty Airport in New Jersey (approx 30-minute taxi/shuttle from Manhattan).

Overnight: Holiday Inn Express Midtown West or similar

Meals included: In-Flight

Today enjoy a full-day tour of New York's iconic Manhattan district. First, you will discover the iconic Times Square and its vast, illuminated billboards, then go down 5th Avenue to view Saint Patrick's Cathedral, the imposing Rockefeller Center, the Flatiron Building, Grand Central Station, Wall Street and the Financial District. Next, you will see Greenwich Village with its tree-lined streets, Soho and Chinatown. Finally, end the day with a walking tour in downtown Manhattan including the Financial District and the 9/11 Memorial. Return to your hotel in classic New York fashion via the Subway (escorted by your guide). Finish the day at your hotel, where you may enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Holiday Inn Express Midtown West or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore the city according to your interests. 

Overnight: Holiday Inn Express Midtown West or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Today you will travel from New York to Washington D.C, the capital of the United States.

Welcome to Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States! This vibrant city is a treasure trove of history, culture, and iconic landmarks. Whether you're fascinated by politics, eager to explore world-class museums, or want to soak in the rich heritage, Washington, D.C., has something for everyone.

Upon your arrival, enjoy an afternoon tour of Washington to see the best-known public buildings in the United States: the White House, the Supreme Court and the Capitol, the seat of the U.S. Congress, then the broad Mall with impressive monuments to Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Finish the day at your hotel, where you may enjoy an evening at leisure.

Today driving distance and time is approx 365km / 4h00

Overnight: Hyatt Place DC Capitol or similar, Washington D.C

Meals included: Breakfast

Today is a free day of leisure to explore Washington, D.C.

Overnight: Hyatt Place DC Capitol or similar, Washington D.C

Meals included: Breakfast

Depart Washington, D.C., today for Philadelphia. Philadelphia is the birthplace of American independence and a city rich in history,

culture, and vibrant neighbourhoods. Philadelphia offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern attractions, from iconic landmarks to world-class museums.

On arrival, you will tour the historic centre with an exterior visit to the Hall of Independence. The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States were signed in this red brick building dating from 1732. Afterwards, see the Liberty Bell, one of the most evocative symbols of the country. Continue with a walking tour of the area to see the exterior of the Arch Street Meeting House, the Betsy Ross Home, and Elfeth’s Alley – one of the oldest continually inhabited residential streets in America. Next, continue to Rittenhouse House Square and the district of Center City, which has many cultural institutions, galleries and shopping centres. You will stop to see City Hall, the largest municipal building in the U.S., before finishing at your hotel, where you will check-in and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Today driving distance and time is approx 225km / 2h30

Overnight: Holiday Inn Express Penn’s Landing or similar, Philadelphia

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the city of Brotherly Love. Try an Amish pretzel at Reading Terminal Market, a cheesesteak sandwich at Gino’s in South Philly, or spend the day at the Philadelphia Museum of Art (home to the famous Rocky Stairs). 

Overnight: Holiday Inn Express Penn’s Landing or similar, Philadelphia

Meals included: Breakfast

Depart at 17:00

Today depart Philadelphia for Manhattan cruise port, where you will board your 10-night Canada and New England cruise with MSC onboard the Meraviglia ship. The ship will leave at 17:00.

Today driving distance and time is approx 150km / 1h45

Overnight: MSC Meraviglia

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Enjoy fun new experiences around the clock on an MSC Cruises ship, from enriching indoor and outdoor activities during the day to magical night-time entertainment.

Discover exclusive ‘Carousel Productions At Sea’ that blends breathtaking acrobatics, dance and live music, and all-new sounds, lights, performers, and special effects that will make you feel part of the show.

On board an MSC Cruise, you can enjoy the glamour of a night in the casino, experience the thrills of the MSC Formula Racer, immerse in the 4D Cinema and play at the bowling alley with your family and friends.

You’ll have a hard time choosing between everything you can experience with cinemas, tournaments, competitions and outdoor activities that are fun for the whole family.

Overnight: MSC Meraviglia

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Boston is a city brimming with history, culture, and academic prestige. Known as the birthplace of the American Revolution, Boston offers a unique blend of historical landmarks, world-class museums, picturesque neighbourhoods, and vibrant culinary scenes. 

If there is any American city where you can breathe some “European air”, it is Boston: a large city built for people, thanks to its central area that can be easily visited on foot or by public transport. Walking through the city, it is not unusual to find a historical house from the American Revolution placed next to a futuristic skyscraper, a fascinating mixture.

A walk along the famous Freedom Trail is one of the best ways to breathe in the atmosphere of Boston and absorb the spirit of a city rich in historical monuments. An absolute must-visit is the area of Cambridge, the cradle of the greatest minds in the country, home to MIT and Harvard, two of the most important universities in the world where prominent figures and US presidents have studied. When it comes to Boston, there are not only things to see but also delights to be savoured. If you like gourmet food, visit Quincy Market: this lively market is a great place to buy fast food and be surprised by eccentric street artists.

Overnight: MSC Meraviglia

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the facilities on board, taking time to recharge before embarking on your next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Meraviglia

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Nova Scotia: one of the most spectacular wild landscapes on the Canadian Atlantic coast with its vast green areas, is a true paradise for nature lovers who can admire moose and eagles and go whale watching to see the numerous types of cetaceans that live in the surrounding seas, including whales and dolphins.

Located on a fjord of Spanish Bay, Sydney is the largest urban centre on the island of Cape Breton, with a past linked to the mining industry. The city's tourist attractions are mainly related to its cultural heritage from Scotland. Its population is a diverse mix of nationalities that put on various Canadian cultural events of Scottish or Eastern European origin throughout the year.

Overnight: MSC Meraviglia

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Welcome to Charlottetown, the capital city of Prince Edward Island, Canada's smallest province. With its rich history, quaint charm, and stunning coastal beauty, Charlottetown offers a delightful blend of culture, outdoor adventures, and warm island hospitality. 

Colonial architecture, elegant Victorian-style buildings, tree-lined avenues, perfectly manicured parks and gardens: the capital of Prince Edward Island is a typical example of an urban English checkerboard layout with a central square with public buildings and four other smaller squares arranged symmetrically around it.

Overnight: MSC Meraviglia

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the facilities on board, taking time to recharge before embarking on your next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Meraviglia

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Wild landscapes, valleys dotted with farms, fishing villages, parks and islands all along the coast: all of this and more await you in New Brunswick, a beautiful maritime province in French Canada. 

Saint John is a picturesque city on the Bay of Fundy, known for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and warm maritime hospitality. As Canada's oldest incorporated city, Saint John offers a captivating blend of historic charm, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Admire its delightful Victorian architecture and steep historical streets, watch the ships dock at the port and admire the restaurants and shops near historical sites such as the New Brunswick Museum, home to the Hall of Great Whales and three floors of fascinating galleries. Saint John City Market is also worth a visit as it is the oldest agricultural market in North America: its beams are reminiscent of a ship's inverted hull, offering a unique shopping experience.

Overnight: MSC Meraviglia

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Welcome to Portland, Maine, a charming coastal city known for its picturesque scenery, fresh seafood, and rich maritime history. Nestled on the shores of Casco Bay, Portland offers a delightful mix of vibrant arts and culture, culinary delights, and outdoor adventures. 

The immense Victorian mansions on the Western Promenade delight the eye and all the other historic buildings in a city of Gothic, Colonial Revival, Mission Revival and Romanesque styles. Don't miss the old harbour district and the recently renovated downtown area, with five blocks filled with 19th-century shops and restaurants.

Downtown Portland is also home to some of Maine's most important museums: the Portland Head Light Museum, located in the oldest lighthouse in the United States (it's truly spectacular!), and the Portland Museum of Art with collections by Picasso, Renoir and Monet. For an afternoon of shopping and relaxation, there is nothing better than a walk through Maine Mall, the largest shopping centre in the city.

Overnight: MSC Meraviglia

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the facilities on board, taking time to recharge before embarking on your next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Meraviglia

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive 6:00

After breakfast, disembark and make your way to the airport for your flight home.

Please note: 

Some flights will depart late in the evening, and luggage storage is available at the cruise port and New York Airports (fees apply).

Some flights may arrive at Newark Liberty Airport in New Jersey (approx 30-minute taxi/shuttle from Manhattan)

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Take a moment to unwind and reflect upon the cherished moments forged during your journey through East Coast USA and Canada.

Upon arrival in Australia or New Zealand, please make your own onward travel arrangements.

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase.

Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.

On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information. 

Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return. 

CANCELLATION POLICY

Covid-19 Booking Policy  

• Tour packages are non-refundable. If your Tour package is affected by Covid-19-related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other package available via the TripADeal website. 

Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with.

The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.

Please note: All additional charges are payable direct to your Travel Consultant in AUD (unless otherwise stated). 

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 8th September 2024.

This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share.

Single Traveller Supplement  

For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement applies. 

Inside Cabin: $2900

Deluxe Ocean View: $3100

Deluxe Balcony: $3300

Please note: accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, depending on availability.

Departure Dates    

2024 

September: *8

Please note: see checkout for live dates and availability.

Departure Cities 

Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane*, Adelaide*, Perth* or Auckland

Departure City Surcharges  

Brisbane: $150 per person

Adelaide: $250 per person

Perth: $500 per person

International Full-Service Airline(s) Used

• Cabin Class: Economy Class

• Airlines: Qantas Airways, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, American Airlines, Asiana Airlines, Air New Zealand, Air Canada, Virgin Australia and airline partners (subject to availability).

Please note: Qantas Tours cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation. 

Missed Flights   

If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you will miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact Qantas Tours as soon as possible to make arrangements. 

Guaranteed Airline Surcharge

• Cabin Class: Economy Class

• Qantas Airways: $400 per person 

• American Airlines: $400 per person  

Please note:  

• Guaranteed airlines are subject to availability. If we are unable to fulfil your request, the above extra cost will be refunded.

• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.

• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased guaranteed airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the guaranteed airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.

Arrive early in New York, USA  

$300 per person, subject to availability

Please note: 

• You may book a date to arrive early via the Qantas Tours website but only a date that is within 30 days of the tour departure date. If you wish to arrive earlier than 30 days before your tour departure date, please call our friendly staff for availability and pricing. Additional costs may apply

• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.

• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.

• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:

• 18th March 2024 - 30th April 2024

• 1st June 2024 - 14th August 2024

• 23rd September 2024 - 20th October 2024

• 6th December 2024 - 31st January 2025

Stay behind in New York, USA  

$300 per person, subject to availability

Please note: 

• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.

• A stay behind can only be booked up to one month after your package end date upon check-out. Should you wish to stay later, please contact Qantas Tours to request availability. Additional costs may apply.

• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.

• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.

• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:

• 18th March 2024 - 30th April 2024

• 1st June 2024 - 14th August 2024

• 23rd September 2024 - 20th October 2024

• 6th December 2024 - 31st January 2025

Stay behind in Los Angeles, USA (Only available to purchase over the phone)  

$400 per person, subject to availability

Please note:

• This option is not available through online check-out. Please contact our friendly staff by phone to purchase this optional extra.

• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.

- This fee does, however, include a flight from New York to your destination. If you wish to forfeit this flight please advise our friendly reservations team so we may secure your return flight back to Australia. Please note, by choosing to forfeit your connecting flight the cost does not change.

• A stay behind can only be booked up to one month after your package end date upon check-out. Should you wish to stay later, please contact Qantas Tours to request availability. Additional costs may apply.

• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.

• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.

• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:

• 18th March 2024 - 30th April 2024

• 1st June 2024 - 14th August 2024

• 23rd September 2024 - 20th October 2024

• 6th December 2024 - 31st January 2025

Stay behind in San Francisco, USA  

$400 per person, subject to availability

Please note:

• This option is not available through online check-out. Please contact our friendly staff by phone to purchase this optional extra.

• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.

- This fee does, however, include a flight from New York to your destination. If you wish to forfeit this flight please advise our friendly reservations team so we may secure your return flight back to Australia. Please note, by choosing to forfeit your connecting flight the cost does not change.

• A stay behind can only be booked up to one month after your package end date upon check-out. Should you wish to stay later, please contact Qantas Tours to request availability. Additional costs may apply.

• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.

• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.

• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:

• 18th March 2024 - 30th April 2024

• 1st June 2024 - 14th August 2024

• 23rd September 2024 - 20th October 2024

• 6th December 2024 - 31st January 2025

Stopover Packages  

Not available

Flight Class Upgrades  

Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.

Please note: 

• Flight upgrades are subject to availability and pricing changes (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).

• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.

MSC Meraviglia is packed with extraordinary features for the perfect experience at sea. Enjoy gourmet dining and out-of-this-world entertainment with new panoramic areas, an innovative ocean-view lounge, a two-deck "inside promenade" with an LED dome and a spectacular amusement area connected to an outdoor water park.

Cabins/Staterooms  

Inside Cabin: 

Comfortable king bed that can be converted into two single beds on request.

Relaxing armchair

Spacious closet

Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer

Interactive TV, telephone, safe and minibar

Deluxe Ocean View: 

Window with sea view

Relaxing armchair

Spacious closet

Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer

Interactive TV, telephone, safe and minibar

Deluxe Balcony: 

Comfortable king bed that can be converted into two single beds on request

Balcony 

Sitting area with sofa

Bathroom with shower or bathtub, vanity area and hairdryer

Please note: cabins are subject to availability; some may have restricted views.

Accommodation Used:  

3-Star Properties (Self-Rated) 

New York: Holiday Inn Express Midtown West or similar

Washington D.C: Hyatt Place DC Capitol or similar

Philadelphia: Holiday Inn Express Penn’s Landing or similar

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.

Extra Nights  

Not available at check-out. 

Please note: If you are interested in booking additional nights of accommodation pre or post-tour, please wait until you receive your travel documentation approximately 4-6 weeks before departure for the confirmed list of hotels. If booking your own additional accommodation directly with the hotel, please be aware that you may be required to change rooms at the start/end of your tour. 

Maximum Room Capacity  

2 people.

Child Policy  

• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.

• Valid for Children 8 years old and over.

Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed.

Triple Share  

Unavailable

Bedding Configuration  

1 x Queen/King or 2 x Single (subject to availability).

Minimum group size 15, maximum group size 40 per vehicle.

Optional Tours/Activities  

Please note: 

• Some tours or Shore excursions require minimum numbers to operate.

• Shore excursions can be booked/reserved directly with the cruise line before travel (subject to availability)

• Shore excursions can also be booked whilst onboard (subject to availability).

• Shore excursion programmes and itineraries may vary depending on local conditions and/or any unforeseen events concerning the timing on the day of the tour. Some excursions are very popular, and therefore availability cannot always be guaranteed, it is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment 

• Visa fees and requirements 

• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer

• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer

• Highly recommended gratuities/tipping 

• Expected gratuities/tipping for land tour for cruise

• Optional activities/tours 

• Personal expenses

• Travel insurance

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER

Tour Guide:   

Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 

Tour Leader:   

An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 

Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 

CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES

New York, USA 

Expect pleasant weather in New York as Summer turns into Autumn between August & September. The average high temperature is 24°C, rarely rising above 32°C. The end of the month cools down slightly but rarely cold enough that a light sweater wouldn’t suffice.

Eastern Canada & USA: 

August - September is a great time to visit Eastern Canada & USA. Daytime temperatures sit around 20 - 25°C with warmer days in August, cooling slightly in September as they enter their Autumn months.

FLIGHTS

Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points:  

At Qantas Tours we do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.

Passport Validity:  

Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.

CRUISE

Embarkation / Disembarkation:  

• Begins approximately 2 hours after docking.

• Due to security reasons, all guests must be on board 2 hours before sailing.

• Itineraries are subject to change at any time without notice.

• Check your specific sailing for exact departure and arrival times. All times are local to the port.

Please note: strict Covid-19 terms may also apply regarding proof of insurance covering Covid-19 and/or vaccination. Please refer to the cruise lines’ terms and conditions for further information before boarding.

Cruise Loyalty Discounts:  

Please note: Travellers booked via Qantas Tours must contact the cruise line directly upon receiving their Qantas Tours travel documents in order to request any membership benefits they may be entitled to.

COACH TOUR

Meals:  

For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify Qantas Tours of any dietary requests/requirements. Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.

Luggage:  

You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.

OTHER

Mobility:  

If you would love to travel with Qantas Tours and require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.

Fitness Level Required:  

A leisurely level of fitness will be required. Light walking, including up multiple stairs, and occasional hiking, may involve uneven surfaces. Able to travel unassisted and get on and off vehicles and small boats. Suitable for most fitness levels and mobility. 

Please note: If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.

Gratuities / Tipping:  

Land 

Gratuities (tips) are not included for the services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The highly recommended tip is $4USD for the driver and $5USD for the guide, per person per day where touring/transfer services are provided. This covers the guide/leader and the driver and will be collected on tour.

Please note: Though highly recommended, tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.

Cruise 

Gratuities (tips) are not included for the cruise staff's services throughout this tour's cruise component. MSC is an internationally registered company & operates to US & European standards, both of which have an economy driven by a tipping culture. Gratuities are expected on your cruise and will be charged to your onboard account at US$14 per person per day. If you have any questions regarding the gratuities on your cruise, please speak to the guest services staff onboard the ship.

Sightseeing: 

Please note: If entrance to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

Shopping: 

Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. 

Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

United States 

• If travelling on an Australian Passport, an ESTA (Visa Waiver) for the USA is a strict requirement when travelling to or flying through the USA. Once a USA ESTA Visa Waiver is issued it is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever is sooner) and will allow multiple entries into the USA. For information on ESTA eligibility or to apply, please visit: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/

Please note: Due to recent changes in the USA Immigration policies, Qantas Tours recommends all travellers visit US Customs & Border Protection.

Important: Please start arranging your visa at least three weeks prior to departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.

Canada  

If you arrive in Canada by train, bus, or boat, you don’t need a visa or eTA, but you do need to bring the right travel documents. 

Important: Visa rules may have changed since COVID-19. Check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Important: 

• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.

• Visa rules may have changed since Covid-19. Some countries and airlines may require you to obtain an additional visa before arrival. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Please note:  

• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.

• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for Visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

Voluntary Changes  

Includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.

• Changes - $100.00 per booking + additional charges from the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error  

• If the incorrect name has been advised to Qantas Tours, charges of $100.00 per booking + any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Supplier Fees  

In the event the Travel Offer you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the Travel Offer due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. Qantas Tours has committed to these costs as your Agent and will endeavour to recover all funds committed and/or paid for your Travel Offer, but this may not be possible in all circumstances. If refunds are unavailable from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. If Qantas Tours cannot obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee. This fee is not revenue-raising and is paid to or withheld by our suppliers when recovering payments.