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20 Day
Luxury Conducted Tour
       
Magnificent European
Waterways Cruise

For only $8,585
per person twin share
This price includes airport taxes and levies of $710

Tour departs Australia 24 March and returns 12 April, 2012

This is great value for a luxury European river cruise as all of the following are included:
  • Return airfares from Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane into Amsterdam and out of Budapest with Singapore Airlines and Lufthansa. 
  • A deluxe 15 day European river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest in an outside stateroom aboard the luxurious Avalon Panorama, built in 2011. 
  • Superb dining on board the cruise ship, with breakfast, lunch and dinner provided daily, as well as a Captain's reception and farewell dinner, and complimentary quality wines from Europe's most famous wine regions served with each dinner.  
  • A half day visit to the famous Keukenhof Gardens & Tulip Fields.
  • A three night stopover in Singapore with accommodation at the 5 stat Ritz Carlton Millenia or equivalent. 
  • Prepaid gratuities whilst onboard the cruise ship. 
  • Entrance fees to many attractions. 
  • All transfers and transport. 
  • Services of European tour guides and if there are 12 or more tour participants there will be an Australian tour leader. 
If you wish you can upgrade your cabin to a higher deck which has wall to wall Panoramic Windows. The cost for this is $965 per person twin share.

For people without a travel partner wishing to travel at twin share rates, we will do our best to match them up with someone else, but this is not guaranteed. For a single room there is an extra cost of $3,244 for the standard cabin and $3,745 for the upgraded panorama window cabin.

Please note this special tour is only available until 30 September 2011.

Tour Itinerary

Terms and Conditions

Booking Form

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Itinerary for the Magnificent, European Waterways Cruise - March 2012

Included meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L =Lunch, D = Dinner

24.03.12 Australia - Singapore
Depart Sydney at 9.15am on Singapore Airlines flight SQ 212, arriving in Singapore at 2.25pm.
Depart Brisbane at 9.20am on SQ 256, arriving in Singapore at 3.15pm.
Depart Melbourne at 11.00am on SQ 238, arriving in Singapore at 3.45pm.
All passengers will be transferred to the 5 star Ritz Carlton Millena in central Singapore, or five star equivalent, for a three night stay.  

25.03.12










Singapore
Today is at leisure. While in Singapore you will receive all the benefits listed below:
*50% discount on the la carte food menu (food only) at the designated food outlet in the passenger's hotel
*Airport-hotel-airport transfers on seat-in-coach basis.
*Free unlimited rides on SIA Hop-on tourist bus.
*Free admission to 6 attractions; National Orchid Garden, Singapore River Cruise, Jurong Bird Park, The Singapore Zoo, Chinatown Heritage Centre, The Battle Box Museum.
*Discounts on shopping, dining, sightseeing tours and attractions as listed in SIA Boarding Pass Privileges program.
26.03.12 Singapore
Another day at leisure to explore this city.

27.03.12 Singapore - Amsterdam
Morning at leisure. Late 6pm checkout from the hotel.
You will be transferred from the hotel to Singapore airport for your flight to Amsterdam.
Depart Singapore at 11.50pm on SQ 324, arriving in Amsterdam at 6.35am the next morning (28.03.11).

28.03.12
(D)
Keukenhof Gardens
Upon arrival in Amsterdam, you will be met at the airport and transferred to the Keukenhof Gardens & Tulip Fields. Keukenhof, also known as the flower garden of Europe, is situated near Lisse, Netherlands. It is the world's largest flower garden, and has been so for over fifty years. Approximately seven million flower bulbs are planted annually in the park, which covers an area of 32 hectares. You will have all morning to inspect this magnificent showcase of flowers. (Entrance fee included).
In the afternoon you will be transferred to the river port to board your luxury cruise ship, the Avalon Panorama. You will be able to meet your crew at a welcome reception.
The Avalon Panorama, which was built in 2011, has four decks and is approximately 150 metres long. The ship is equipped with; a reception, sky lounge, whirlpool, internet corner, outside viewing deck, bar, hair salon, elevator, dining room, fitness centre and much more. It has 83 cabins with the following features as standard:
- Premium matress covers with Egyptian super-combed cotten linens.
- A choice of soft or firm pillows.
- Extra blankets.
- Choice of bed configuration (two twins or one queen).
- Nightly turn-down service.
- Bedside tables with reading lamps.
- Large private bathroom featuring full shower with glass door, hairdryer and premium bath amenities.
- Spacious 3 door closets with shelves for ample storage.
- Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels.
- Writing desk / vanity with comfortable chair and mirror.
- Wi-Fi internet access.
- Direct dial telephone.
- Bathrobes & slippers.
- Well-stocked minibar.
- Complimentary bottled water.
- In-room safe.
- Individual climate control air conditioning.
29.03.12
(B/L/D)
Amsterdam
Holland's delightful 700 year old capital is sophisticated and modern, with a rich and fascinating history. The works of famous Dutch masters can be seen in the world-renowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh.
There is no better way to see Amsterdam than by canal boat. We take a marvelous canal cruise through the elegant grachten lined with stately homes. Afterwards, your river cruise vessel sets sail for Cologne.
30.03.12
(B/L/D)
Cologne, Germany
Cologne is one of Germany's largest cities, with a river skyline dominated by the soaring twin spires of its magnificent gothic cathedral. The Germano-Roman Museum next to the cathedral is a must for history buffs. You might like to try a Kolsch (beer) in one of the many taverns and shop for a bottle of 4711, the original 'eau de cologne'. 
31.03.12
(B/L/D)
Rhine Gorge - Rudesheim
The dramatic Rhine Gorge is the most beautiful stretch of the river. Pass the legendary rock of the Lorelei, where sweet songs of local beauties lured enchanted sailors to their doom. Visit Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in pretty Rudesheim. Later there will be free time to explore the Drosselgasse.
01.04.12
(B/L/D)
Miltenberg, Germany
Located on the main river, Miltenberg is a picturesque Bavarian village that thrived on income from river traffic. Its cultural wealth and affluence are reflected in the beautiful medieval and renaissance houses and the gothic splendour of the Merchant Hall shown to you during your guided sightseeing. This afternoon, learn how to bake a local soft cookie specialty.
02.04.12
(B/L/D)
Wurzburg, Germany
Known as the 'Pearl of the Romantic Road' Wurzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. Visit the magnificent Bishop's Residenz, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
03.04.12
(B/L/D)
Bamberg, Germany
Another beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site is medieval Bamberg. Your walking tour takes in its breathtaking cathedral, the Old Town Hall straddling the River Regnitz, and serpentine streets with charming houses and 18th century mansions.
04.04.12
(B/L/D)
Nuremberg, Germany
Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during World War II, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg's traditions include its famous Lebkuchen, toy making and metal working. After dinner we'll introduce you to some of Germany's famous beers.
05.04.12
(B/L/D)
Regensburg, Germany
One of German's best preserved medieval cities, Regensburg's architectural highlights include the Old Town Hall and Porta Pretoria - gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD.
06.04.12
(B/L/D)
Passau-Linz, Austria
Ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, Passau is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen's Cathedral houses the world's largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. An optional full day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights.
07.04.12
(B/L/D)
Melk - Durnstein - Vienna, Austria
Visit Melk's magnificent Benedictine Abbey, which dominates the town from its commanding hill site. It is one of Europe's largest monasteries. Durnstein, known for the baroque Stiftskirche with its blue facade, lies right in the heart of the Wachau wine region. Above town are the ruins of the castle where England's King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192.
Vienna, known as the 'city of music', inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss.
08.04.12
(B/L/D)
Vienna
Once the centre of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria's capital has much to offer; Lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ring Boulevard, and the awe-inspiring St. Stephens Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy during your city tour. Shop in the Karntnerstrasse and perhaps enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighbourhood cafe. 
09.04.12
(B/L/D)
Bratislava, Slovakia
Situated at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, Bratislava is the dynamic capital of Slovakia. The charming Old Town with its Town Hall and Mirbach Palace. We have an inside visit to the gothic St Martins Cathedral, which should not be missed.
10.04.12
(B/L/D)
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is Eastern Europe's liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis. Seven bridges connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with Fisherman's Bastion and the Matthias Church is among the impressive sights you will see on the included tour. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika.
Tonight there will be a farewell dinner before your flights the next day.  
11.04.12
(B)
Budapest - Frankfurt - Singapore
This morning we disembark the ship and are transferred to Budapest airport.
Depart Budapest at 9.40am on Lufthansa flight LH 1335, arriving in Frankfurt, Germany at 10.55am. Transfer to your next flight.
Depart Frankfurt at 12.35pm on Singapore Airlines flight SQ 25, arriving into Singapore at 6.30am the next day. 
12.04.12 Sydney passengers depart Singapore at 9.40am on Singapore Airlines flight SQ 211, arriving into Sydney at 8.20pm.
Brisbane passengers depart Singapore at 9.50am on Singapore Airlines flight SQ 245, arriving in Brisbane at 7.40pm.
Melbourne passengers depart Singapore at 10.10am on Singapore Airlines flight SQ 217, arriving in Melbourne at 8.35pm.
Note: In the event of water level problems on stretches of any river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motorcoach. The ground operator for the European cruise section of the run is run by Avalon Waterways. 
Also Note:

As this tour is at a special price, it is only expected to be for sale until the 30th September 2011. After this date we will be unable to take any new bookings.
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Conditions for Macleay Valley Travel's Magnificent, European Waterways Cruise

Deposits and Payments - A non-refundable deposit of $400.00 per person is payable within 7 days of booking. This deposit is not refundable should you later cancel. The balance is payable in full three months prior to departure. 
Refunds and Cancellations - Cancellations after final payment will result in a refund limited to whatever we can recoup from the airline.
Insurance - Adequate travel insurance is essential. We can arrange this for you if desired.
Passports - All travellers require a current passport with at least 6 months left on it at the end of the tour. Non-Australian passport holders require a re-entry visa for Australia.
Visas are not required for any of these countries if travelling on an Australian passport.
Basic Tour Price and Taxes -  Air taxes and fuel levies to the value of $710 are included in the basic tour price, therefore, as air taxes and fuel surcharges change regularly the exact amount will be advised at time of final payment. Total tour cost may therefore change by a small amount.  ****Please note that these taxes are subject to change.****
Not  Included in the Cost - All items of a personal nature such as telephone calls, drinks, excess baggage, tips, meals, (except those specified in the itinerary), travel insurance etc.  
Booking through other Agents - As we keep the cost of out tours as low as possible, there is insufficient margin for us to be able to pay commission to other travel agents, so some bookings can only be accepted if the client pays the other agent's commission. 
Macleay Valley Travel is a fully licensed travel agent and as such any monies paid to us are fully insured by the Travel Compensation Fund. We are happy for any prospective traveller with us to check us out with your local Consumer Affairs (fair trading) department.
Similarly, credit card payments can only be accepted if 2% is added to the price to help defray the heavy merchant fees charged to us by the credit card companies.
Health and Fitness
Macleay Valley Travel recommends that the passenger is reasonably healthy and/or fit to participate in this tour.  Persons with a disability requiring special assistance must be accompanied by a companion. Macleay Valley Travel and their representatives cannot provide this service.  Macleay Valley Travel reserves the right to accept/decline or terminate a passenger's participation in the tour under certain circumstances.
Limitation of Liability - As Macleay Valley Travel acts only as agent for the Airlines, Hotels, Coach Companies etc., providing accommodation, transportation and other services, Macleay Valley Travel shall not be liable or responsible for death or injury to any person or loss or damage to any property including baggage arising out of or connection with any transportation, accommodation or other services, or resulting directly or indirectly from acts of God, fire, breakdown in machinery or equipment, acts of Government or other authorities, de jure or defacto wars, whether declared or not, hostilities, civil disturbances, strikes, riots, thefts, epidemics, quarantines, medical or customs regulations, delays or cancellations caused by changes in schedules or itinerary, or over bookings or defaults or for any causes beyond Macleay Valley Travel's control or any loss or damage resulting from improper or insufficient passports, visas or other documents and neither Macleay Valley Travel, and its servants or employees shall be or become liable or responsible for any additional expenses or liability sustained or incurred by the tour member as a result of the foregoing causes.
Macleay Valley Travel reserves the right to modify the itinerary or the accommodation if circumstances make this necessary, provided that the amended itinerary is of equal value or greater value than that of the original program.
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