Scotland, England & Western Europe

Overview
Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe as you explore the captivating wonders of Scotland, England, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium and France. Culture and history enthusiasts can delve into the rich history and modern charm of alluring cities, iconic universities, impressive landmarks and more on this fascinating 19-day cruise and tour.Your quest begins in Glasgow, Scotland, where you’ll enjoy time at leisure discovering world-class museums and traditional Scottish pubs before heading to Inverness, where you’ll embark on a scenic cruise of Loch Ness and Dochgarroch Lock to see Urquhart Castle. Climb aboard Scotland’s only mountainside railway as you take a breathtaking trip on the Cairngorm Mountain Railway before visiting Edinburgh Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland. Use your hop-on and hop-off bus pass to explore the city of Edinburgh ahead of catching the train to London where you’ll admire the stunning architecture of Windsor Castle.
Before boarding your MSC cruise, you’ll explore the historic city of Oxford with a local guide and take a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Roman Baths and Stonehenge landmark. Set sail to the cities of Hamburg in Germany, Rotterdam in the Netherlands and Bruges in Belgium before spending the day docked in Le Havre near Paris in France. Your cruise then disembarks in Southampton, England, where you’ll make your own way back to London.
With six countries waiting to be explored, don’t miss out on this adventure of a lifetime with return international flights, a 7-night MSC cruise, 9 nights of hotel accommodation, 29 gourmet meals and so much more.
Want more? Add extra days to your itinerary with Arrive Early in Glasgow, Scotland and Stay Behind in London, England packages.
Tour Inclusions
- Discover the highlights of Scotland, England, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium & France
- Enjoy a full day at leisure in the vibrant city of Glasgow
- Explore the Glencoe eco-friendly visitor centre in Glencoe National Nature Reserve
- Keep your eyes peeled for the Loch Ness Monster on a scenic Loch Ness cruise
- See Urquhart Castle on a cruise along Loch Ness and Dochgarroch Lock
- Enjoy a breathtaking trip on the Cairngorm National Park Mountain Railway
- Marvel at the beautiful views across Cairngorm National Park
- Visit Edinburgh Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland
- Discover Edinburgh's iconic landmarks with a hop-on and hop-off 24-hour bus pass
- Journey to London, England’s capital city, by rail and discover this influential metropolis
- Visit Windsor Castle, one of the most significant and oldest inhabited castles in the world
- Explore Oxford with a local guide, renowned for its prestigious university and long history
- Enjoy a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Roman Baths and the iconic Stonehenge
- Discover the numerous museums, theatres and galleries of Hamburg, Germany
- Cruise to Rotterdam, the second-largest town in the Netherlands and gateway to Amsterdam
- Visit Zeebrugge (Bruges), known for its perfectly preserved medieval centre and charming canals
- Dock in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Le Havre, France, gateway to Paris
- Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply
- 7-night MSC Cruise through Western Europe
- 9 nights of quality hotel accommodation
- 29 meals including all while cruising
- English-speaking tour leader and local guides for city tours
- Airline taxes and surcharges
- Transportation by air-conditioned vehicles
- Arrival transfer included (Day 2)
- 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)
- Stopover Packages: Break up the long-haul flight with a stopover at a fantastic location (see checkout for details)
- Optional Tours: Optional experiences and tours are available to add to your itinerary (see checkout for details)
- Cabin Upgrades: Cabin upgrades are available (see checkout for details)
- Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class or Premium Economy (see checkout for details)
- Guaranteed Airline: Fly with a guaranteed airline (see checkout for details)
- Please note: Extra charges may apply, see the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details
Itinerary Itinerary Brochure Download
Today you'll depart for Glasgow, Australia.
Please note: Some customers may depart on Day 2 and arrive on Day 2.
Meals included: In-Flight
Upon arrival, be met by a representative and transferred to the hotel. If it's too early for check-in, luggage can be stored at the hotel while you explore this magnificent city.
Glasgow is a vibrant city located in the west-central region of Scotland, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. It's the largest city in Scotland and the fourth largest in the United Kingdom, mostly known for its rich history, cultural heritage and friendly people.
Overnight: Courtyard Glasgow SEC or similar
Meals included: None
Today, enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Glasgow. Glasgow is renowned for its cultural contributions and boasts a thriving arts scene so you'll find several world-class museums and galleries including the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the Burrell Collection and the Riverside Museum. This city also offers a diverse range of entertainment options from traditional Scottish pubs to trendy cocktail bars and live music venues.
Overnight: Courtyard Glasgow SEC or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
This morning, you'll depart for Glasgow and journey to Inverness. On route, stop off at the Glencoe eco-friendly visitor centre which is nestled in a woodland glade. Here you'll get a taste of the stories that make Glencoe National Nature Reserve so special. The cinema space plays an unmissable short film, 'The Glen Revealed', which is narrated by Game of Thrones actor Rory McCann. It’ll take you on a journey through millions of years and leave you inspired to support the National Trust for Scotland’s work here today.
Afterwards, continue to Inverness where you'll embark on a one-hour Loch Ness Cruise, so keep your eyes peeled for the Loch Ness Monster who is affectionately known as Nessie and is said to inhabit Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands. As you cruise, you'll pass along Loch Ness and Dochgarroch Lock to see Urquhart Castle as you learn about the loch’s history and legends. In the afternoon, check into the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure after an approximately 280km day.
Overnight: River Ness Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, you'll depart for Aviemore where you can enjoy a breathtaking trip on the Cairngorm Mountain Railway. This is Scotland’s only funicular railway in Cairngorms National Park and the highest in the United Kingdom, reaching the Ptarmigan building at over 1,097m above sea level. The 2km funicular railway runs a regular service, taking customers to the top of the slopes in just a few minutes. Once at the top station, marvel at the beautiful views across the national park and enjoy a unique visitor experience as you explore the viewing terrace, Ptarmigan Restaurant with panoramic views, Cairngorm Gin Bar, 270 degrees immersive exhibition, Cairngorm Learning Zone with interactive sandboxes and the gift shop.
After the rail excursion, you'll continue on to Edinburgh on an approximately 252km day. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure in the capital city of Scotland, and one of the most historic and culturally significant cities in the United Kingdom. Edinburgh attracts millions of visitors each year and is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, festivals and scenic landscapes.
Overnight: Hampton by Hilton Edinburgh West End or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Today you'll visit Edinburgh Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland and a must-visit tourist attraction in the city of Edinburgh. It sits atop Castle Rock, a volcanic rock formation that provides stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. The castle has a rich history that spans over a thousand years and has played a significant role in Scotland's history. The castle's origins can be traced back to the 12th century though archaeological evidence suggests that the site may have been fortified even earlier. Over the centuries, it's served as a royal residence, military stronghold and the headquarters of Scottish monarchs.
Afterwards, use a hop-on and hop-off 24-hour bus pass to explore the city. The bus departs every day from 09:00 to 18:00, running every 12 minutes. The tickets give you access to all stops on the red route, including stops for main sights such as Grass Market and Palace of Holyrood.
Overnight: Hampton by Hilton Edinburgh West End or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Edinburgh Waverley station where you'll board the train to London for an approximately 4 hours 40 minutes journey. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to the hotel, if it's too early for check-in then your luggage can be stored while you explore the magnificent city of London.
Overnight: Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Today, enjoy a free day at leisure. London is home to numerous world-class museums and art galleries so take a look around the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Tate Modern, and the Natural History Museum.
Overnight: Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Today, you'll check out of the hotel and continue to Windsor Castle, one of the most significant and oldest inhabited castles in the world. Located in the town of Windsor, it's a royal residence and an official residence of the British monarchy, known for its historical importance, stunning architecture and picturesque setting.
Afterwards, you'll continue to Oxford, renowned for the prestigious University of Oxford which is one of the oldest universities in the world after being founded in the 12th century. The city itself has a long history, dating back to at least the Saxon period. Oxford also boasts a stunning collection of architecture with buildings spanning various periods from medieval to modern times. Some iconic landmarks include the Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Library, Sheldonian Theatre, and Christ Church College which served as the inspiration for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.
Enjoy exploring this magical city with a local guide before continuing to Bath after an approximately 232km day.
Overnight: Hampton by Hilton, Bath City or Similar
Meals included: Breakfast
(Departs at 20:00)
After breakfast this morning, enjoy a two-hour tour with a guide of the Roman Baths and Stonehenge monument. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts some of the most exquisite architectural and historical treasures in Europe including The Roman Baths with its 15th-century abbey and impressive Royal Crescent. The popularity of Bath has increased thanks to the reopening of its thermal spa, making it the only natural thermal bath in Britain that offers the possibility of bathing in temperate waters as the Romans and Celts did 2000 years ago. Afterwards, you will visit Stonehenge which is one of the most important prehistoric sites in England before continuing to Southampton. Here you'll embark on your MSC cruise after an approximately 106km day.
Please note: Boarding times will be outlined in your travel packs 4-6 weeks prior to departure.
Overnight: MSC Euribia (March) or MSC Preziosa
Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner
Take advantage of the many facilities onboard or relax and bask in the European sun on route to Hamburg, Germany.
Overnight: MSC Euribia (March) or MSC Preziosa
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
(Docked from 07:00 to 21:00)
Hamburg, Germany, is a prominent European port on the river Elbe, bridging continental Europe and Scandinavia. This destination boasts magnificent buildings overlooking the harbour, numerous canals, and the Speicherstadt which is the world’s largest warehouse district. Hamburg has a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters, galleries and music venues that cater to a variety of interests.
Overnight: MSC Euribia (March) or MSC Preziosa
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Take advantage of the many facilities onboard or relax and bask in the European sun.
Overnight: MSC Euribia (March) or MSC Preziosa
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
(Docked from 08:00 to 20:00)
Rotterdam is the second-largest town in the Netherlands, after the capital city Amsterdam, and is the largest port in Europe. Rotterdam is a charming destination that's located at the mouth of the Nieuwe Maas river and was founded in 1270. You'll find its historical centre covers an area of picturesque waterways.
MSC offers plenty of exciting optional excursions (not included):
• Canal cruise in Amsterdam
• Independently explore Amsterdam
• Rotterdam
Overnight: MSC Euribia (March) or MSC Preziosa
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
(Docked from 07:00 to 18:00)
The village of Zeebrugge lies on the coast of Belgium and is the subdivision and modern port of Bruges. This beautiful destination is known for its perfectly preserved medieval centre, winding streets, and charming canals that are lined with impressive buildings. Zeebrugge itself is a relatively small village however it attracts many tourists due to its proximity to the charming city of Bruges which is about 10 kilometres inland. Bruges is famous for its medieval architecture, canals, cobbled streets and historic landmarks.
Overnight: MSC Euribia (March) or MSC Preziosa
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
(Docked from 09:00 to 21:00)
Le Havre is located on the French shores of the English Channel, at the mouth of the river Seine. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its contemporary architecture so here you’ll discover fabulous museums full of impressionist paintings and beautiful public gardens. Le Havre is also the perfect base for venturing to Paris, France’s glittering capital.
Overnight: MSC Euribia (March) or MSC Preziosa
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
(Disembark at 08:00)
After breakfast, disembark the cruise ship and make your own way back to London. The best way to get from Southampton to London is via direct train or coach, there are also direct train options from Victoria and Waterloo stations as well as direct bus options from the Victoria Coach Station. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for the night and spend the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Ibis London Earls Court or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Today, make your own way to the airport in time for your international flight back to Australia (or New Zealand).
Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight
Please note: Some customers may arrive +1 day.
Important Info
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
Qantas Tours packages are non-refundable. If your Qantas 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 Qantas Tour or 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. We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. 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 in AUD (unless otherwise stated).
This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until 09 October 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: $2,450
• Ocean View Cabin: $2550
• Balcony Cabin: $2,950
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
March: *20
October: 02, 09
Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability.
Surcharges
Please note:
• Dates/months with a * incur a high season surcharge of $450 per person.
Departure Cities
Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, *Adelaide, *Perth or *Auckland
Departure City Surcharges
Perth: $100 per person
Brisbane, Adelaide or Auckland: $400 per person
International Full-Service Airline(s) Used
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
• Airlines: Emirates, Qantas, Qatar, Singapore Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Malaysian, Turkish, Japan Airlines, KLM, Air France (subject to availability).
Please note: We 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 us as soon as possible to make arrangements.
Guaranteed Airline Surcharge
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
• Qatar: $315 per person
• Emirates: $370 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 Options
Glasgow, Scotland - $300 per person
High season dates range up to $700 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.
• High season arrive early can be purchased for up to $700.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):
01/12/2023 - 09/02/2024
18/03/2024 - 30/04/2024
01/06/2024 - 14/08/2024
23/09/2024 - 20/10/2024
06/12/2024 - 31/01/2025
Stay Behind Options
London, England - $300 per person
High season dates: up to $700 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. High season stay behind can be purchased for up to $700 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):
01/12/2023 - 09/02/2024
18/03/2024 - 30/04/2024
01/06/2024 - 14/08/2024
23/09/2024 - 20/10/2024
06/12/2024 - 31/01/2025
Stopover Packages
* Doha
Twin share: $1,000 per person/one way
Solo Traveller: $1,500 one way
* Dubai
Twin share: $1,000 per person/one way
Solo Traveller: $1,500 one way
* Singapore
Twin share: $1,200 per person/one way
Solo Traveller: $1,800 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:
01/12/2023 - 09/02/2024
01/03/2024 - 10/03/2024
18/03/2024 - 30/04/2024
01/06/2024 - 14/08/2024
23/09/2024 - 20/10/2024
06/12/2024 - 31/01/2025
Singapore Grand Prix: September 2024
Doha Grand Prix: October 2024
Doha Moto GP: November 2024
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (for Dubai): November 2024
Flight Class Upgrades
Business or Premium Economy 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 'Euribia' Ship (March Departure)
MSC Euribia offers its guests 5 outstanding and unique pools, including one of the biggest and most intricate waterparks at sea. The longest and most spectacular LED Dome at Sea. The indoor promenade features both main and speciality restaurants along with numerous shops. The promenade is destined to become the ultimate destination for socialising and entertainment possibilities for guests.
Cabins/Staterooms
Inside Cabin
• Surface 12m2, deck 5-13
• Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer
• Interactive TV, telephone, Wi-Fi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
Balcony Cabin
• Surface 17m2, balcony 6m2, deck 8-10
• Sitting area with sofa
• Bathroom with shower or bathtub, vanity area with hairdryer
• Interactive TV, telephone, Wi-Fi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
MSC 'Preziosa' Ship (October Departures)
The classic design of beautifully crafted MSC Preziosa includes spectacular features such as a real stone piazza, sweeping Swarovski crystal staircases and a magical ‘infinity’ pool. Get ready to dive into one of the many pools, let your hair down at the themed parties, treat yourself to something delicious in one of the amazing restaurants, and much more!
Cabins/Staterooms
Inside Cabin:
• Surface 13m2, decks 8-11
• Relaxing armchair
• Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer
• TV, telephone, Wi-Fi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
Ocean View Cabin:
• Surface 17m2, deck 8-13
• Window with sea view
• Relaxing armchair
• Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer
• Interactive TV, telephone, Wi-Fi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
Balcony Cabin:
• Surface 14m2, balconym2, decks 9-11
• Sitting area with sofa
• Bathroom with shower or bathtub, vanity area with hairdryer
• Interactive TV, telephone, Wi-Fi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
Please note: Cruise timetables are subject to change. Some cruise cabins may have restricted views, based on availability.
Accommodation Used
3 & 4-Star Properties (Self-Rated)
• Glasgow: Courtyard Glasgow SEC
• Inverness: River Ness Hotel
• Edinburgh: Hampton by Hilton Edinburgh West End
• London: Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington
• Bath: Hampton by Hilton
4-Star Cruise
• MSC Euribia (March)
• MSC Preziosa (October)
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.
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
Double or Twin (subject to availability).
Minimum group size 20, maximum group size 38 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
• Optional gratuities/tipping
• 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
United Kingdom
Both May and June are very pleasant times to visit the UK and Ireland when the weather is mild and the flowers are blooming. At this time of year, the average temperature is 16°C, which is considerably warmer than the previous months.
July and August is when the summer season is coming to a close. During these months, the average temperature is 18°C. As August progresses, the daily temperatures slowly decrease as summer blends into autumn.
The weather starts to cool down in September & October when the autumn season is setting in. During this time of year the average temperature is 16°C.
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 moderate level of fitness will be required. A moderate fitness level may involve more physical activity, including biking, longer day hikes or extended walking and standing, low-altitude treks, and water-based activities such as canoeing or low-grade kayaking. Guests using any walking aid other than a walking stick would be advised to reconsider as surfaces may be uneven.
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 £6 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 of this tour. MSC is an internationally registered company & operates to US & European standards, both of which have an economy driven by a gratuities culture. Gratuities are expected on your cruise and will be charged to your onboard account at approximately €10 per person per day. If you have any questions in regards to the gratuities on your cruise please speak to the guest services staff onboard the ship.
Sightseeing
Please note: If entry 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 Kingdom & Europe
A tourist visa is not required for the UK and Europe for stays up to 90 days if travelling on an Australian or New Zealand 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 AUD 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 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
Supplier Fees
In the event the Qantas Tour 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.
You must be a Qantas Frequent Flyer member to earn points. A joining fee may apply. Membership and points are subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program terms and conditions.
To earn Qantas Points with Qantas Tours, Members will be required to provide a valid Frequent Flyer number and last name at checkout. Only the lead traveller, the primary contact for the booking, will earn 3 Qantas Points per AU$1 spent (including GST) on eligible holiday packages. Qantas Points will not be earned and cannot be redeemed on any amounts payable directly to the hotel. Conditions apply. Qantas Points will be credited to a member's account up to 8 weeks after tour completion. Qantas Points will not be earned on cancelled bookings.
In addition to the 3 Qantas Points per AU$1 spent, each Frequent Flyer member who enters their Qantas Frequent Flyer number into the booking will also earn Status Credits and Qantas Points on the flight component of the package. The amount you earn depends on your flights, the operating airline, fare class and member status. Find out how many Qantas Points you could earn on your next Qantas Tours flights with our online Points Calculator. Terms and conditions apply.
Points Plus Pay allows you to choose the number of Qantas Points you redeem above the minimum level of 4,000 and pay for the remainder of the booking value with an accepted payment method. TripADeal booking terms and conditions apply.