Grand Voyage South Africa to Europe

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply
• One way domestic flight from Johannesburg to Durban, South

Today depart for Johannesburg, South Africa. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to the hotel.

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Please note: Due to flight scheduling and availability, some departures may occur on day 0. Affected customers must be at the airport the night before. Flight times will be indicated on your final documentation which you will receive prior to departure.

Overnight: Protea Hotel by Marriott OR Tambo Airport or similar, Johannesburg

Meals included: In-Flight

This morning continue your journey through the South African countryside to the 5-star Ivory Tree Lodge for the next 3 nights. Ivory Tree Game Lodge lies in a natural amphitheatre surrounded by mountains and immersed in riverine woodlands that are dissected by ancient elephant trails. In the northeastern part of the Pilanesberg, Ivory Tree covers an oasis of luxury in one of South Africa’s favourite wilderness areas. A large pool, the Amani African Spa, outdoor dining, and spectacular game viewing make for the perfect holiday.

Pilanesberg National Park is also a sought-after wildlife destination in a malaria-free zone. The park is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, black rhinoceros, African bush elephant, and African buffalo) and only 2 hours from Johannesburg. The unique biosphere of the Pilanesberg National Park is home to one of the country’s most famous wildlife areas. The park is set in an ancient volcanic crater. This well-stocked reserve has a dramatic landscape that supports a wide variety of plants, animals, and birds. Luxurious suites provide a calm retreat after exciting days in the bush. Warm and earthy tones create a welcoming feeling, while a covered patio and outdoor shower allow you to relax into the unique environment of the Pilanesberg. Today is approximately a 230km travel day.

Please note: Depending on your flight departure time on Day 6, a visit to Soweto and the Apartheid Museum may change to this day.

Overnight: Ivory Tree Lodge, Pilanesberg National Park

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Begin the day with an early morning game drive through the reserve. Game drives are conducted in comfortable 10-seater, open 4X4 Land Cruisers accompanied by professional English-speaking field rangers and trackers, ensuring an informative and detailed safari experience. Keep your camera at the ready for some incredible photo opportunities. Return to the lodge mid-morning for breakfast and some rest and relaxation before heading out again to spot more wildlife on an evening safari. Afterwards, wind down with a few sundowners before dinner.

Overnight: Ivory Tree Lodge, Pilanesberg National Park

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Discover new and exciting areas of Pilanesberg National Park and its diverse wildlife with another early morning and evening game drive.

Overnight: Ivory Tree Lodge, Pilanesberg National Park

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Begin 23-Night MSC Grand Voyage South Africa to Europe

Departs at 18:00

Today be transferred to the airport for your flight to Durban. Once in Durban be met and transferred to the cruise terminal to embark on an exciting 24-night South Africa to Europe cruise aboard the spectacular MSC 'Splendida’.

Today is approximately a 230 km travel day.

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

(Docked 08:00 to 19:00)

Cruise ships rarely visit the port of La Possession, on the splendid Punta des Galets. This makes it one of the most unique stops on an MSC cruise to Southern Africa. As soon as you disembark, you can head off on an excursion to the so-called Circus of Salazie, the remains of an enormous volcanic caldera located a few kilometres from La Possession. Instead of geysers of lava, extinguished centuries ago, you will find an explosion of life, where marvels of nature live side by side with small towns scattered throughout a lush forest. The view you will enjoy as you ascend along the windy road is indescribable. However, not all of the fire has gone out. In the Piton de la Fournaise, you can still admire two active volcano craters, the Dolomieu and the Bory, which filled with lava in 2007.

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

(Arrive at 08:00)

A holiday in Mauritius means disembarking at Port Louis. It is the capital of this island nation off the coast of Madagascar, which together with its twin Réunion, is a must-see stop.

Port Louis has taken its role as the country’s first city seriously and has expanded over time with new streets, buildings and a beautiful promenade. After the cruise ship has docked, you will be able to take a stroll along the Caudan Waterfront, lined with old cannons and numerous shops. Traces of Port Luis’s colonial past can be seen on Place D’Armes, where the statue of Bertrand François Mahé, the count of La Bourdonnais and a former governor of the island observes passers-by surrounded by palm trees.

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy another day in exotic Port Louis.

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

(Departs at 12:00)

Enjoy another morning in exotic Port Louis.

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Ship docked 06:00 to 20:00

Port Safaga (Bur Safaga in Arabic) is a village on the Red Sea coast.

Don’t miss the chance to go on an optional shore excursion to discover Luxor and the overwhelming concentration of relics in the area, starting from Port Safaga.

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive at 8:00am, Depart at 19:00

Start planning your cruise and book your excursions to Aqaba or to the stunning Petra.

If you’re interested in ancient history, Aqaba is a fantastic stop on your MSC cruise in the Middle East. Jordan’s only seaport has been an important trading port since 1500 BC and, under Byzantine rule, it’s thought the world's first church was built here.

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Today enjoy time at sea soaking up everything the MSC 'Splendida' has to offer.

Indulge at one of its many themed restaurants and bars, catch a live show at the theatre, try your luck at the casino or kick up your heels in the Club 33 Disco.

Maintain your fitness in one of the four swimming pools, work out in the gym or run on the jogging track and afterwards relax with a massage or treatment in the MSC Aurea Spa.

Aboard the MSC 'Splendida', there's no shortage of things to see and do.

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Today enjoy time at sea soaking up everything the MSC 'Splendida' has to offer.

Indulge at one of its many themed restaurants and bars, catch a live show at the theatre, try your luck at the casino or kick up your heels in the Club 33 Disco.

Maintain your fitness in one of the four swimming pools, work out in the gym or run on the jogging track and afterwards relax with a massage or treatment in the MSC Aurea Spa.

Aboard the MSC 'Splendida', there's no shortage of things to see and do.

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 09:00 - Depart 18:00

Dating back to 2nd millennium B.C., Naples is one of Italy’s ancient jewels. Boasting a vibrant historical centre set around a striking harbour bay, discover architectural landmarks, masterpiece artworks and sumptuous food. The volcano of Mount Vesuvius offers a picture-postcard backdrop. From the city, travel further afield to the archaeological site of Pompeii or take in Capri’s glamorous culture.

Cruise excursions offer plenty of exciting things to see including:

• Pompeii

• Capri

• Sorrento

Overnight: MSC Cruises - MSC 'Splendida’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive at 7am

Today after breakfast onboard, disembark and continue your journey to the Italian capital city, Rome.

Enjoy a half-day guided tour with a local guide to experience some of the richest historical sites in the world: See Piazza Venezia, the Campidoglio, centre of political life; Av. Del Foro Imperiale; the former centre of political, commercial and legal life; the Colosseum (outside) arena of gladiators and the Arch of Constantine; a monument dedicated to Emperor Constantine in 315 by the Senate and the people of the Ancient Rome (entrances not included). You can also see the Palatino, where former emperors and influential people once lived, the exterior of the vast Circus Maximus, the main site in the city where chariot-racing events were held (entrances included).

Overnight: Hotel Cristoforo Colombo or similar Rome

Meals included: Breakfast

Today head north through the jaw-dropping Tuscan countryside to Florence, home of the Renaissance. Florence (known as Firenze to the locals) was the centre of medieval European trade and finance and is considered the birthplace of the Renaissance. Enjoy a walk around Florence’s many highlights, including the Ponte Vecchio over the Arno river, the Piazza del Duomo and Campanile Tower.

Continue your journey to the Italian capital of fashion, Milan. Upon arrival check in to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Today is approximately a 550 km travel day.

Overnight: Hotel Degli Arcimboldi or similar, Milan Area

Meals included: Breakfast

Today after breakfast enjoy a guided city tour (approximately 3 hours). Celebrated as the Italian capital of fashion and design, Milan is a city rich in art, history and culture. The tour begins from Sforza Castle (entrance not included) before walking towards the Duomo.

On the way, admire elegant buildings along two of Milan’s iconic streets - the Via Dante and Via Dei Mercanti. Piazza del Duomo is the heart of Milan, and the Duomo - where German influences are softened by the finesse of Italian artists - is one of its most significant Gothic style monuments. From the Piazza Duomo, your tour continues through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Italy’s oldest active shopping mall and a major landmark of Milan, before arriving at the Piazza Della Scala, home to one of the most famous theatres in the world; La Scala (entrance not included).

Today is approximately a 140 km travel day.

Overnight: Hotel Degli Arcimboldi or similar, Milan Area

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, begin the drive to Lake Como. Sit back and enjoy the remarkable scenery of the Alps. Upon arrival in Como, enjoy a half day guided tour.

Lake Como is the most spectacular of the region’s three major lakes and is surrounded by beautiful villages. Explore this beautiful city known for the Gothic Como Cathedral (entrance not included) and a waterfront promenade.

Later take a boat excursion to Bellagio, the most famous town of the lake, has narrow and steep lanes and offers unparalleled views of the lake.

Enjoy time at leisure in the Pearl of Lake Como, with its picturesque location and views, home to a colourful historic centre, beautiful gardens, charming neighborhoods and much more.

In the afternoon continue your journey to the beautiful city of Lucerne.

Drive through the Swiss Alps and travel through the Gotthard Tunnel (16km long). Continue along the breathtaking shores of Lake Lugano until arrival at Lucerne.

Enjoy free time to explore this historic city. For an authentic taste of Switzerland, why not head to one of the many authentic fondue restaurants in town for dinner (not included). Cheese or chocolate - Fondue is the national dish of Switzerland and should not be missed! Today is approximately a 250 km travel day.

Overnight: Hotel Holiday Inn Express Luzern or similar, Lucerne

Meals included: Breakfast

Rewind with a free day in the beautiful city of Lucerne, nestled amongst lakes and soaring peaks in the heart of central Switzerland.

Overnight: Hotel Holiday Inn Express Luzern or similar, Lucerne

Meals included: Breakfast

Today depart for Dijon, the capital city of the historical Burgundy region, one of the country’s principal wine-producing areas. The region is known for its vineyards, International Gastronomic Fair and building styles ranging from gothic to art deco. Nestled in the foothills of the Côte d'Or, the city is often referred to as the ‘city of a hundred towers’. Enjoy a walking tour of the historic city centre with the tour leader. Be spoiled for choice as Dijon is blessed with an abundance of beautiful architecture. First, see the remarkably well-preserved 17th century Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy (entrance not included) in the city centre. You will also see The Cathedral of Saint-Bénigne (entrance not included) which was built on the remains of a previous Romanesque church between the twelfth and fourteenth centuries. Today is approximately a 350 km travel day.

Overnight: Hotel Holiday Inn Dijon or similar, Dijon

Meals included: Breakfast

Today depart for the Capital city of France, Paris. Upon arrival check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure in this beautiful city.

Today is approximately a 315 km travel day.

Overnight: Hotel Ibis Paris La Defense Courbevoie or similar, Paris

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning enjoy a half-day city tour of Paris with a local guide. Begin the tour from outside the imposing Notre Dame in Ile de la Cite, considered by many as the most significant church in Paris, a masterpiece of French Gothic art, renowned for stunning stained-glass windows, flying buttresses and intricate statues. Not far from Notre Dame, you will see the Palace of the Conciergerie, formerly a prison but presently used for practising law. The prison housed as many as 1200 prisoners in its heyday, including the famous Marie Antoinette (Queen of France). Continue onwards to the Latin Quarter, the literary and intellectual area and home to the former University of Sorbonne. Afterwards, take some time to admire the impressive Luxembourg Garden and Saint Germain des Prés (entrances not included). Continue through Les Halles shopping district (formerly a fresh food market in the 19th century) until you reach the cultural centre of ‘George Pompidou’, home to the Museum of Contemporary Art. To finish the tour on a high, see the centrepiece of Paris’ cityscape, the Eiffel Tower.

Overnight: Hotel Ibis Paris La Defense Courbevoie or similar, Paris

Meals included: Breakfast

Today be transferred to the airport for the flight back home.

Overnight: In-Flight

Meals included: Breakfast

Please note: Some flights may arrive +1 days later.

• Cabin Class: Economy Class

• Emirates: $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.

• Guaranteed airline refers to the marketing carrier and could include codeshare partners.

Arrive Early in Johannesburg, South Africa

$300 per person, subject to availability

Please note:

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

• You may book a date to arrive early via our 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:

• 18 March 2024 - 30 April 2024

• 1 June 2024 - 14 August 2024

Stay Behind in Paris, France

$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 us 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:

• 18 March 2024 - 30 April 2024

• 1 June 2024 - 14 August 2024

Stopover Packages 

* Dubai 

Twin share: $1000 per person/one way

Solo Traveller: $1600 one way

* Doha

Twin share: $1000 per person/one way

Solo Traveller: $1600 one way

* Singapore

Twin share: $1200 per person/one way

Solo Traveller: $1800 one way

Includes:

• 2 nights in 4-star accommodation

• Daily breakfast

• Return airport transfers 

Please note: 

• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used

• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind

• Stopover packages are subject to availability.

• 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.

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

• Singapore Grand Prix: September 2024 (Dates TBC)

• Doha Grand Prix: October 2024 (Dates TBC)

• Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (for Dubai stopover): November 2024 (Dates TBC)

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.

Domestic Flight Information

Baggage allowance per person

23kg of checked baggage

7kg of carry on baggage

MSC 'Splendida'

Eco-ship MSC 'Splendida' carries you in comfort, style and luxury to the most desirable cruise destinations in the world, while at the same time being a beautiful destination in her own right. With so much to see and do on board, every day on MSC 'Splendida' promises travellers of all ages a world of new discoveries, before they even step ashore.

Entertainment and Leisure

You’ll love the live music and extraordinary variety of themed bars and restaurants with many gourmet choices to explore. Complete the night with a world-class show in The Strand Theatre, a winning streak in the Royal Palm Casino or dancing in the Club 33 Disco.

Fitness and Relaxation

Sports facilities on MSC 'Splendida' include four swimming pools, a jogging track, squash court and an ultramodern gym. After exercising, you can relax with a massage in the MSC Aurea Spa or sunbathe in the peace and privacy of the Top 18 sun deck.

Bars and Lounges

Feel like a mid-morning cappuccino, a pre-dinner glass of wine or a late-night cocktail? The extraordinary variety of designer-themed bars onboard means you’ll always be able to find the perfect venue to match your mood and satisfy your desires.

Cabins/Staterooms

Inside (Decks 5-13)

Approximate size: 17m²

Amenities:

• Relaxing armchair

• Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer

• Comfortable double or single beds (on request)

• TV

• Telephone

• Wifi available (for a fee)

• Safe

• Minibar

Ocean View (Decks 5-13)

Approximate size: 18-21m²

Amenities:

• Window with sea view

• Relaxing armchair

• Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer

• Comfortable double or single beds (on request)

• TV

• Telephone

• Wifi available (for a fee)

• Safe

• Minibar

Balcony

Approximate size: 19-20m²

Approximate balcony size: 4-6m²

Amenities:

• Sitting area with sofa

• Bathroom with shower or bathtub, vanity area with hairdryer

• Comfortable double or single beds (on request)

• TV

• Telephone

• Wifi available (for a fee)

• Safe

• Minibar 

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

Accommodation Used:

4-5 star (self-rated)

Johannesburg: Protea Hotel by Marriott or Tambo Airport or similar

Pilanesberg National Park: Ivory Tree Lodge

Milan: Hotel Degli Arcimboldi or similar

Lucerne: Hotel Holiday Inn Express Luzern or similar

Dijon: Hotel Holiday Inn Dijon or similar

Paris: Hotel Ibis Paris La Defense Courbevoie 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 12 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

Not available.

Bedding Configuration

Twin or double bedding (subject to availability).

Minimum group size 20, maximum group size 36 per vehicle.

Optional Tours/Activities

• Some 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 (a visa is not required if travelling on an Australian passport)

• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer (including any specialty restaurants onboard cruise)

• Optional gratuities/tipping:

- Europe: Recommended land: €5/7 EUR per person/day payable on tour

- South Africa: At customer’s discretion 

- Cruise: Recommended approx. €10 EUR per person, per day, payable onboard at the end of the cruise

• Optional activities/tours (including any 'onshore' excursions as part of cruise) 

• City Tax (payable directly to the hotel at check-in):

- Milan: Approx. €5 EUR per person, per night

-Rome approx.€6.00 per person, per night

• Personal expenses

• Travel insurance (mandatory)

Please note: A comprehensive travel Insurance policy must be organised BEFORE all details can be finalised.

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

Europe

As this deal covers multiple countries, temperatures will range from low to high 20’s (in Celsius). We recommend dressing in layers as there can be significant changes in temperature throughout the day. Wear good walking shoes, jeans or heavy cotton pants, a light cotton shirt plus a sweater/jacket and to fit in with the local Italians, a scarf. Expect temperatures ranging from highs of 16°C to lows of 7°C.

South Africa

Johannesburg is situated on the highveld plateau and has a subtropical highland climate. The city enjoys a sunny climate, with the summer months (October to April) characterised by hot days followed by afternoon thunderstorms and cool evenings. Temperatures in Johannesburg are usually fairly mild due to the city's high elevation, with an average maximum daytime temperature in November of 25.6°C, dropping to an average maximum of around 12°C at night.

Mauritius and Reunion Island

The average high during November is 29ºC, with evenings remaining pleasant at around 20ºC. 

FLIGHTS

Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points:

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 must contact the cruise line directly upon receiving their 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 us 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 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. 

Leisurely is described as 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 recommended tip is €5-7 EUR per person per day. This covers the guide/leader and the driver and will be collected on tour. 

Please note: 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 Cruises 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 €10 EUR 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.

Tourist visas for Europe and South Africa are not required if travelling on an Australian Passport.

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

This 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 and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error

• If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100.00 per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Supplier Fees

In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the Qantas Tour 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. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.