Kid-Friendly Cruise Lines

The contemporary cruise lines – Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Norwegian, have many programs focusing on child entertainment.  Disney Cruise Line, of course, is a niche market focused on families.  Some niche/luxury cruise lines do allow older children, but do not have children's programs, so you must plan accordingly.

CONTEMPORARY CRUISE LINES:

• Royal Caribbean. Ships: Anthem, Harmony, Allure and Oasis of the Seas
• Norwegian Cruise Line. Ships: Norwegian Escape, Breakaway, Getaway and Epic
• Carnival Cruise Line. Ships: Carnival Vista, Breeze, Dream and Magic
• Costa Cruises. part-shark, dolphin and walrus - is the icon for the Squok Club, which is divided into four age groups. Mini Club, for children aged three to six, lays on stories and arts and crafts, while activities in the Maxi Club, ages seven to 10, include treasure hunts, pizza parties, pool games, jogging, aerobics and even Italian language classes.
• MSC – This line caters to families with their Kids Sail Free policy, for children under age 11 staying in a stateroom with two paying adults.

PREMIUM CRUISE LINES

• Holland America Line:  Has Club HAL for children 3-17
• Princess Cruises. Camp Discovery youth and teen clubs focuse on children 3-17.
• Celebrity Cruises.  Complimentary youth and teen programs are designed to keep everyone smiling. Kids can spend their time on board with crafts, toys, video games, music, karaoke and more. Activities are divided into four groups by age. There's the Fun Factory for younger kids plus the X Club, a supervised hangout for tweens and teens.

NICHE CRUISES

• Disney Cruise Line. Just the name Disney will tell you it is all about families.  All of Disney ships are focused on family activities.

LUXURY CRUISE LINES

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

The world’s most all-inclusive luxury line, Regent offers the Club Mariner program, which is split into age groups (5-8, 9-12 and 13-17) on selected departures in Europe. On some of these cruises in 2013, predominantly in the Baltic and Mediterranean, kids can sail for a reduced fare. Seven Seas Voyager and Mariner have among the most expansive pool decks found on luxury ships, with outdoor hot tubs and table tennis.

Crystal Cruises

This award-winning cruise line offers a huge range of family-friendly activities for kids 3 - 17. Kids-only play areas, including Fantasia, host games, crafts, televisions equipped with gaming consoles, and computers, while Waves is like an old-fashioned video arcade. Guests are also able to organize scavenger hunts, cooking classes, fashion shows, trivia, and sports to keep the little ones busy.

Paul Gaugin Cruises

Created in collaboration with Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society, the Ambassadors of the Environment Youth program introduces kids 9 - 17 to the amazing ecological wonders of French Polynesia and Tahiti. Junior Ambassadors are able to hike through rainforests, investigate ancient Polynesian temples, and explore coral reefs.

Seabourn

A spokesperson said Seabourn attracts families during certain periods, usually on seven-day Med cruises in the northern hemisphere summer. At that time, the line employs youth counsellors to organize ‘mocktail’ parties, scavenger hunts and performances of plays and concerts. The ships also have Wii consoles and board games.

Silversea

Although it is does not have any kids clubs or child care staff, a spokesperson said Silversea welcomes families and it is becoming “quite common” for multi-generational groups to cruise together.

RIVER CRUISE LINES - tend to be less friendly than ocean, especially with young children.  There are no children's facilities or programs for their entertainment. 

AMA Waterways.  River Cruises with Adventures by Disney on the Danube and Rhine Rivers. Minimum age is 6, suggested age is 8+.

Uniworld Boutique*
The minimum age requirement for Uniworld’s river cruises is 4 years old; however, the recommended age is 8 or older. The company features a few multigenerational cruises throughout the year. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or older at all times. Uniworld offers a few Multigenerational river cruises during summer and winter school vacations. Packages are available for 3 itineraries: 1) Castles Along the Rhine; 2) Paris & Normandy; and 3) Classic Christmas Markets.

• Discounted Fares for Children: Yes, 50%
• Special Programs: Yes, special onboard and onshore activities are planned to cater to parents and grandparents traveling with young people.
• Facilities for Children: Yes

Tauck*

Tauck Bridges’ itineraries are recommended for children who are at least 3 years old. All shore excursions have a minimum age rating assigned to them. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during all Tauck journeys for young travelers.

There are 3 Tauck Bridges’ packages available: 1) Castles on the Rhine: Family Riverboat Adventure; 2) Blue Danube: Family Riverboat Adventure; and 3) Bon Voyage! France Family River Cruise.

Discounted Fares for Children: No

Special Programs or Facilities for Children: Yes for Tauck Bridges’ cruises. No for children’s facilities onboard the ship.

Viking River Cruises

The minimum age requirement for Viking River Cruises is 12 years old. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult who is over the age of 21. The company states that it reserves the right to limit the number of passengers who are younger than 18 years old.

• Discounted Fares for Children: No
• Special Programs or Facilities for Children: No

Avalon Waterways

Children must be at least 8 years old to travel with Avalon Waterways. Children under the age of 18 must be supervised at all times by an adult who is at least 21 years old.

• Discounted Fares for Children: No
• Special Programs or Facilities for Children: No

American Queen Steamboat Company

American Queen Steamboat Company will allow children as young as 6 months old; however, the company does not provide a crib or sleep accommodations for young travelers.

• Discounted Fares for Children: No
• Special Programs or Facilities for Children: No

*Offer a few family-friendly river cruises during the summer and winter school vacations.

Contact Travel, Tour & Cruises to plan your dream vacation.

Cruise Geography, Part II

The second most popular cruise destination is Alaska.  Alaska’s travel seasons are much shorter, and cruise itineraries are only available from May through October.

• High Season – June-August.  Weather allows for an abundance of wildlife viewings.  High season is the longest season in the year to visit Alaska.
• Shoulder Season – May and September-October.  Weather is chillier and less wildlife is visible, but you can still enjoy breathtaking scenery.

Alaska also has a unique no-travel season from November through April.  Cruise ships pull out due to ice and snow and typically reposition back to the Caribbean.

The most popular embarkation ports are Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia.  One-way cruises are available departing from Seward or Anchorage and travel south to Seattle or Vancouver.  Occasionally a longer cruise may embark in San Francisco.  You can usually see this as ships reposition early in the season from Hawaii to Alaska.

You will have less variety to choose from with Alaska cruise itineraries.  The length of the trip dictates how far north is traveled.

Standard Alaska cruise ports are:             

• Skagway
• Juneau
• Tracy Arm Fjord
• Ketchikan
• Sitka
• Hubbard Glacier

There are two types of cruise lengths to choose from.  A seven-day cruise starts and ends in the same place (round trip), but tend to spend less time in port cities.

One-way cruises allow you to sail deeper into Alaska than the round-trip cruise and typically operate on a north- to south-bound rotating basis.  You also have the advantage of tacking on a land package with a one-way cruise.  Some people prefer back-to-back one-way cruises, extending travel time to 14 days.

European Cruises

River cruising is recognized as a great way to see Europe.  River cruise ships spend more time in port cities than their larger ocean cruise counterparts.

The seasons vary from itinerary of choice.  Northern European circuit is preferable in the summer months of June through August for its warmer temperatures.

Popular western Mediterranean itineraries may be just as busy during June through August.

Early spring and fall are shoulder seasons.  Weather is still very favorable with little daytime showers.  If you are looking to take a river cruise at a great price, this is the best time of the year to do it. 

Mediterranean Cruise

November through March is the low season.  Most of the US cruise lines have repositioned to the Caribbean, but localized lines offer available cruises such as the Italian-based lines of MSC and Costa. 

European itineraries are separated into three categories:

• Western Mediterranean
• Eastern Mediterranean
• Northern Europe

Europe has the most diverse itineraries in the cruise market.  Because ships are smaller they can reach a wide variety of ports.  Due to an expanding market of growing fleets, there are many ports of call.  Ports visited depend on the cruise line and ship size.

For the longest time, the Western Mediterranean has had one major cruise port – Barcelona, Spain.  However, an increased number ports for embarkation are now used, such as:

• Monte Carlo
• Athens
• Venice

Popular ports of call are:

• Cannes
• Nice
• Florence (Livorno)
• Naples/Capri
• Rome (Civitavecchia)

The Eastern Mediterranean has three embarkation ports:

• Rome
• Venice
• Istanbul, Turkey

Popular ports of call are:

• Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Athens
• Santorini, Greece
• Haifa, Israel
• Dubai, Emirates

Northern Europe has three main embarkation ports:

• London
• Stockholm, Sweden
• Copenhagen, Denmark

Sample of a River Cruise Map

Popular ports of call are:

• Berlin
• Copenhagen
• London
• Oslo, Norway
• St. Petersburg, Russia
• Stockholm
• Tallinn, Estonia

Rhine River Cruise

Contact Travel Tours & Cruises for your dream vacation.

Cruise Geography

The Number One cruise itinerary in the world is the Caribbean.  The average American chooses the Caribbean as a first cruise.  Starter cruises to the Caribbean are 3-4 days, usually to the Bahamas.

Travel to the Caribbean has three distinct seasons:

• Peak Travel – Mid December to mid-April.  Weather is an average 80°F. with very few rain showers.
• Shoulder Season – May plus September-October.  Temps are lovely but seas may be rough due to tropical storms or hurricanes – more rainy days.
• Low Season – June-August.  Height of hurricane season

Cruise lines have the right to modify an itinerary if they see it is unsafe to travel.  Less ships are unavailable during summer months because cruise lines reposition their ships during that time.

Caribbean itineraries are separated into three categories:

·      Southern Caribbean. The Southern Caribbean stretches from the lush paradise of Dominica to the remote isles of Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire.  With a deeper dive into the Caribbean, you can immerse yourself in traditional Caribbean culture and life, on islands pairing colonial influence with native charms.

Beautiful, Picturesque Island of Dominica

·      Eastern Caribbean. The laid-back Eastern Caribbean is home to many of the region’s most popular islands – gems like the US Virgin Islands, St. Thomas, Antigua and the duel-country island of  Sint Maarten/Saint Martin.  Known for world famous beaches, stingrays and shopping, this is the perfect option for a sunny family vacation, reconnecting with loved ones.

Coming in for a landing at Sint Maarten Airport.  Runway is right next to the beach.
          The wildest place on earth to watch planes coming and going!

·      Western Caribbean. Unique destination s await in the Western Caribbean, where you’ll find Mayan ruins and eco-adventures in southern Mexico, gorgeous beaches and snorkeling in the island of Roatán and friendly spirit of Jamaica, Cozumel, Belize, Cayman Islands, among others.

Mayan Ruins in Mexico

Florida leads the market with Western Caribbean embarkation ports:

• Port Canaveral
• Ft. Lauderdale
• Miami
• Tampa

Caribbean cruises also sail from standard western ports of:

• New Orleans
• Galveston
• Houston

The ports of call visited during the cruise depend on the embarkation port, cruise line, and cruise length.  Western Caribbean cruises typically range from 4 to 8 days in length.  Longer cruises tend to have more ports of call but the following ports are standard on many itineraries:

• Cozumel
• Belize
• Roaten
• Jamaica
• Grand Cayman

All 3-4 day cruises will generally visit one port of call, usually Cozumel.  Five-day cruises will visit two ports of call, Cozumel typically being one.  The second port will vary by cruise line.  Seven-day cruises increase ports to about 4.  Longer cruises have a wider range of itinerary possibilities and may see any combination of port cities.

The Eastern Caribbean has seven embarkation ports:

• Boston
• New York
• Baltimore
• Charleston
• Port Canaveral
• Ft. Lauderdale
• Miami

Many clients are not aware of the location variety of ports to embark at, such as Bayonne Cape Liberty, a port in New Jersey.  Featured cruises include cruises to Bermuda, the Bahamas, Southern Caribbean, and autumn cruises to east coast US/Canada.

Embarkation ports may greatly affect cruise itineraries of same duration.  For examination, a 7-night cruise from Boston will have less port days than a 7-night cruise from Miami, because it takes more sea days to reach the Caribbean from Boston.

Stops can include:

• Bahamas
• Turks & Calicos
• Grand Turk
• St. Thomas
• Sint Maarten/Saint Marten
• St. Kits
• Antigua

Also unique to the Eastern Caribbean itineraries is a stop or two to the private island holdings of each major cruise line.  Each cruise may include 1-2 days at their all-inclusive private island, depending on the cruise length.  The following is a list of islands owned by each Cruise Line:

Disney – Castaway Cay

Meet and greet Disney characters.  Dining is included in package.

Norwegian – Great Stirrup Cay

Spend day on the beach or snorkeling, parasail or kayak.  Free BBQ/buffet

Holland America Line – Half Moon Cay

Shares with its sister cruise line, Carnival.  You have a unique opportunity to ride horses at sea.

Princess – Princess Cay

White sand beaches and typical shore activity such as clear bottom kayaking, snorkeling and sailing.  Free BBQ/lunch buffet.

Royal Caribbean - Coco Cay

Parasailing, snorkeling, relaxing in hammocks along the private beaches.  Aquapark and a large floating playground.  Plans are being made to build a new pier that will eliminate the need for tendering.  It will even accommodate the Oasis-class ships. In addition, a massive waterpark is also planned.  Completion is scheduled for 2018.

Royal Caribbean – Labardee, Haiti

Another private island owned by Royal Caribbean, this one has the world’s largest zip line over water, a 300-foot water slide, and private roller coaster.

Southern Caribbean Itinerary has the least amount of embarkation ports:

• New York
• Port Canaveral
• Ft. Lauderdale
• Miami
• San Juan (primary)

Southern Caribbean itineraries may repeat same port of calls as Eastern Caribbean itineraries …

• St. Thomas
• Sint Maarten/Saint Marten
• St. Kitts

This is not Photoshopped - an actual jet flying in for a landing at Sint Maarten airport, which happens to be right past the beach.

 … and may reach more southern ports of call:

• St. Lucia
• Barbados
• Grenada
• Dominica
• Aruba
• Curaçao

Southern Caribbean cruises fall within the 7- to 12-day range.  Cruises from Baltimore and north are longer because of the time it takes to get to the Caribbean.  These embark ports typically are 12 days.

What are the Nos. 2 and 3 most popular cruise itineraries?  Find out tomorrow!  Contact Travel, Tours & Cruises to schedule your dream vacation.

Cruise Terms

SHIPS are large vessels that float on water and passengers sail on.  They are distinguished from BOATS based on size and cargo, or passenger capacity.

The REAR of the ship is called the AFT.

The FRONT of the ship is called the BOW.

The PORT is on the LEFT side of the ship, facing front.

The STARBOARD is the RIGHT side of the ship, facing front.

Command control/navigation center is the BRIDGE.

The Bridge of the Harmony of the Seas, currently the world's largest ship.

Ships are docked at PORTS, also called STOPS along the way.

STABILIZERS are wings that stick out to prevent swaying.  Seasickness occurs more often during rough seas, and stabilizers help to keep the ship stable.

TENDERS are smaller boats used when ships cannot dock.  There are some ports of call where ships drop anchor rather than being tied to the dock, and this can be due to any number of reasons, some of which are that the ship is too large or there are too many ships already docked.  The ship usually anchors within sight of the shore, and it is usually a 10- to 40-minute trip to and from the dock.  The ship uses a designated number of its lifeboats for tendering, and sometimes tenders are provided by the port of call. 

GUARANTEE is a reserved cabin. 

EMBARKATION is entering the ship at the beginning of the cruise.

DISEMBARKATION is exiting the ship at the end of the cruise.

Contact Travel, Tours & Cruises to plan your dream vacation.

Canada and New England’s Storied Shores

Whether you are a history aficionado whose bucket list includes Boston’s hallowed streets, the lighthouses of Maine or 400-year-old Quebec City; or a nature lover eager to see fall in Acadia National park or white begula whales in the stunning Saguenay Fjord, Canada and New England will enchant you. 

Become enchanted on a Princess cruise to Canada and New England during September/October – the only time to see the autumn splendor.  Princess brings you exclusive offerings for 2017 such as original musical productions by one of Broadway’s most successful talents, delicious dining created just for Princess by one of the world’s hottest chefs, Chef Curtis Stone, and so much more.

From the history of its colonial cities and seaside fishing villages to the spectacular beauty of its forests and shores, Princess brings the wonders of Canada and New England to life with illuminating regional offerings on ship and on shore.  Sample delicious local specialties like authentic clam chowder, Maine lobster and Boston Cream Pie Martini; and learn about history and culture from expert lecturers.

Festivals of the World:  Take part in some of the world’s greatest celebrations, known for lavish costumes and masks, enjoy the hearty wursts and delicious beers of Oktoberfest at festive on-deck parties.

Fresh and Flavorful:  Award-winning chef and restauranteur Curtis Stone brings his passion for fresh seasonable ingredients and creative preparations on board with special dishes created just for Princess.  “Crafted by Curtis” dishes are available in the main dining room.

Chocolate Journeys

You’ll find plenty of ways to satisfy your chocolate craving including new confections from master chocolatier Norman Love, chosen as the Inaugural Inductee into the Chocolatier Hall of Fame by Dessert Professional Magazine.  Look for Chef Love’s sinfully delicious signature desserts in the main dining rooms, plus exquisite breakfast pastries and evening cakes in Horizon Court.

An Eastern Adventure

Québecois Destinations

Whether you are a visitor of a resident, the east coast of Canada and New England holds treasures beyond measure to be discovered with Princess.  Choose from five unique itineraries and two Land & Sea Vacations, and you will enjoy experiences such as the rich colonial history of Boston, the French-flavored culture of Québecois destinations including quaint Gaspé and vibrant Québec City, Maine’s dazzling Acadia National Park, Anne of Green Gables’ famed Charlottetown, the awe-inspiring Saguenay Fjord and so much more.

Saguenay – History and Beauty in Equal Measures

Saguenay Fjord

It’s home to some of the most spectacular scenery in North America – Quebec’s breathtaking Saguenay Fjord.  But from its early days in the 17^th century as a French colony and trading post, perhaps best preserved in the village of Chicoutimi with its famous pulp mill – the region is also rich in history.  Among the rolling green hills along the fjord, you will find the charming hamlet of La Baie, settled in 1838.  For contrast, the city of Arvida was built in 1927 in “135 days,” as the story goes, and is one of Canada’s first and best preserved pre-planned model towns.  You will enjoy some of the best scenic cruising ever as hour ship sails up into the 65-mile-long fjord en route to Port Saguenay.  Once there, you can take in the area’s incredible heritage while surrounded by the wonder of her stunning natural splendors on a shore excursion with Princess.

Hallowed Ground – The Battle of Gettysburg

Gettysburg Battlefield

On July 1, 1963, a battle commenced in and around a small town in Pennsylvania that would prove a turning point in the Civil War and the inspiration for Abraham Lincoln’s immortal “Gettysburg Address.”  The victory of General George Meade over Confederate Robert E. Lee repelled Lee’s attempt to invade the north and helped shift momentum in the war to the Union.  Today, visitors can stroll the hallowed grounds of the battlefield and learn all the details of this legendary conflict in our Historic America Land & Sea Vacation.

The Northeast’s Authentic Experiences Await

Also known as Collinwood, the Ancestral Home of the Collins Family

The Breakers at Newport

With Princess, you don’t just get to see the best destinations of Canada & New England – you get to experience them just the way you want to with an array of award-winning excursions.  Tour the Gilded Age mansions of Newport, bike through breathtaking Acadia National Park at Bar Harbor, walk Boston’s Freedom Trail, discover the thrill of an international yachting competition in the hands-on adventure that puts you on the America’s Cup team in Newport, home to the America’s Cup, and much more.

Acadia National Park

Rediscover America on a Princess Cruise.  Contact Travel, Tours & Cruises for your dream vacation.

Find Your Place in the Sun

From the remote Seychelles to the volcanoes of Iceland, Azamara Club Cruises has 63 new voyages to inspire your sense of adventure.  On Azamara, you’ll have more time to explore with longer stays and more overnights.  Plus, you will enjoy personalized, localized, and exclusive adventures that bring you close to new people, places and cultures.  Along the way, relax in stylish comfort on their intimate, club-like ships with generously inclusive amenities, a congenial atmosphere, and attentive personal service.  If you love travel, you belong on Azamara.  Welcome aboard!

Time Travel

Destination Immersion® means longer stays, more overnights, and night touring, and it’s the Azamara way of life.  Why settle for half a day when you could be there from 8 AM to 11 PM, or even overnight?  With extra time and their expert guidance, you are on your way.  Take a hike, kayak down a river, shop in open air markets, meet local people and shopkeepers, visit art galleries, dine in a sunlit plaza, bargain in crowded bazaars, and duck into that little restaurant where no one speaks your language (delicious fun).  Visit the countryside or more distant cities like Madrid, Moscow, or Berlin.  No rushing around, no pressure to pick up the pace.  Just plenty of time.  What a concept.

A Night to Remember

Experience complimentary AzAmazing Evenings® events, created solely for Azamara guests, and share their love of local culture through an exclusive, bespoke and very fun evening of local entertainment.  The venues are as authentic as the events – a 19^th century Italian opera hall, a Russian ballet theater, the Odeon at Ephesus, and Liverpool’s majestic Anglican Cathedral are just a few examples.  One AzAmazing Evenings event is included on most voyages, and you won’t find them on any other cruise line.

Thailand and Vietnam

Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden

Buzzing motorbikes, temples smoky with incense, French colonial architecture, lost-in-time villages, and neon-lit nightlife.  It is all part of the experience in Southeast Asia, where you can sink your toes into a white sandy tropical beach one day and appreciate the beauty of Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden the next.  See the culture past and present in floating markets and night markets, countryside bike rides, elegant French Vietnamese dining, and a night out in Bangkok.  Enjoy options for four remarkable World Heritage Sites:  Angkor Wat’s temples, Halong Bay’s dreamlike karsts and fishing villages, ancient Hue on the Perfume River, and the old trading center of Hoi An.

New Zealand

Milford Sound

See the magical islands where Lord of the Rings was filmed (otherwise known as Middle Earth).  Sail close to New Zealand’s majestic scenery, from the Bay of Islands to Milford Sound, a fjord Rudyard Kipling called “the eighth wonder of the world.”  Meet the people and explore the culture with visits to Kidnappers Bay, colonial Russell, Rotorua’s Maori lands, Napier’s art deco neighborhoods and Wellington’s excellent.  Te Papa Tongarewa Museum.  Sip wines at famous Marlborough vineyards, swim with tiny dolphins in Akaroa, go whale watching in Kaikoura, and taste your way through the Tasmanian culinary capital of Hobart.

Seychelles & Maldives

Explore the Exotic Beauty of The Seychelles

Located some 900 miles off the East African coast, the island nation of the Seychelles has been called “Eden on Earth” and that pretty much sums it up.  You’ll have three days for secluded white beaches, crystal green waters, and virgin jungles with more endemic species than any place else on earth (rare black parrots, blue pigeons and giant tortoises, to name a few).  For shops and markets, visit little Victoria, where a cracked-open coconut with a straw is its own kind of paradise.  The other ports on this voyage aren’t exactly wallflowers:  Explore the peaceful backwaters of Kochi, the tiny coral isle of Kuda Bandos in the Maldives, and Sri Lanka’s World Heritage monasteries, cave temples, and rainforests.

AzAmazing Evening in Cochin, India

These are just a few of the amazing journeys you will experience on an Azamara Club Cruise.  Contact Travel, Tours & Cruises for your dream vacation.

The Importance of Travel Insurance

With the event of the Elizabeth City, NC, based Coast Guard having to use helicopter missions to pick up two ailing cruise ship passengers from separate cruise ships on April 23, it calls to mind the importance of purchasing travel insurance for all age groups.  Any of the following scenarios can happen.

Vacationing Solo

Young or old, anything unforeseen can happen on a vacation, or even before you leave.  Your vacation is paid for and you find you are forced to cancel because your boss has an urgent matter requiring your attention the day you are schedule to leave.

Romantic Getaway

Nothing is more romantic than a cruise.  You can have as much or as little privacy as you want, and you get to visit exotic locations without having to pack and repack.  But if you or your significant other experiences something serious that requires medical attention, medical services onboard may not be covered by your insurance plan.  Worse, if you have a heart attack or other serious event, and need to be flown back to the United States, the cost may be your responsibility, as well as the cost to transport your significant other back with you.

Family Vacation

You work hard to save enough money to take your family on a memorable cruise.  Your youngest comes down with chickenpox the day before your trip. 

When you decide to go on a vacation, whether it is on your own, as a couple or as a family, your medical insurance may not cover these events if you are out of the country.  Some insurance policies don’t even cover you if you travel outside of your own state.  And, if it does, you can be certain you will have to pay something towards the deductible, and the possibility of increased insurance rates.  I’ve even heard of insurance companies denying you coverage when you re-enroll if you have “taken advantage” of the coverage too much within the policy year.  Like the unfortunate souls on the cruise ships, one experiencing kidney failure, the other a heart attack, an uneventful vacation is not guaranteed.  Of course, medical insurance does not cover urgent business matters that occur right before your trip, so you are out of all the money you spent and your plans for a dream vacation are shattered.

Unfortunately, events like these happen every day.  If you are not prepared for them, it can cost you thousands.  Travel insurance is offered to help offset these events.

The most common travel insurance policies combine coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, baggage protection, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation. There might also be a set amount of death and dismemberment insurance.

When looking at trip cancellation and trip disruption insurance, you should carefully read the fine print in terms of what timeline may apply – does the insurance kick in after 12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours or another amount of time? You'll also want to look at whether or not a cruise line's policy will give you cash back or whether the reimbursement is in the form of credit for a future cruise. 

We at Travel Tours & Cruises do not sell insurance.  We only offer insurance as part of your vacation package, to help protect your investment.   Be well advised, and well prepared, before you spend your hard-earned money for a vacation.  Contact Travel, Tours & Cruises to plan your dream vacation.

Tauck Worldwide Journeys

European Delights

Have you ever been wined, dined, and entertained in a historic palace?  Seen a hunting hounds demonstration at a château?  Had dinner with Princess Diana’s former chef?  Whether you sail on Tauck’s river cruises or travel the continent with them by land, you will explore Europe up close with insider experiences, like an after-hours guided tour at the Sistine Chapel and a lesson in pouring a perfect pint of Guinness.  All along the way, you’ll stay in premier hotels in the best locations.  Travel from Sicily to Northern Italy … in France and Spain … through Britain and Ireland … up to the Swiss Alps and Scandinavia … and across Central Europe to the Baltics and Russia. 

Take North America by Storm

Yellowstone National Park

When was the last time spectacular natural beauty left you speechless?  Discover the national parks of the US and Canada with Tauck and experience that feeling over and over.  In their exclusive partnership with filmmaker Ken Burns, Tauck has created journeys and original content for you around the themes of his film, The National Parks:  America’s Best Idea.  You will stay in lodges inside the parks and explore with insiders and naturalists.  Tauck also has many trips beyond the parks, filled with unique experiences like a demo and lunch at the New Orleans School of Cooking, lunch with a Nashville songwriter, and polar bear spotting on the Manitoba tundra! 

Manitoba Tundra

• Journey to two of America’s most majestic parks, Yellowstone and Grand Teton, and challenge the imagination with jaw-dropping canyons, gurgling mudpots, hot-heated geysers, wide-open spaces and mountains dressed in wildflowers, wildlife and man-made wonders. 
• Live like the cowboys do at the Ranch at Ucross, stopping en route at the TA Guest Ranch to saddle up for a horseback ride, meet a horse whisperer and take an old-fashioned wagon ride out on the range of a working cattle ranch. 
• Travel into the Black Hills of South Dakota to see larger-than-life sculptures including Crazy Horse Memorial, dedicated to all Native American tribes, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial, portraying the famous chiseled faces of four former presidents, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt.

The Beauty of Grand Teton National Park

Mount Rushmore, in the Black Hills, Keystone, South Dakota

The Crazy Horse Memorial under construction, on privately held land in the Black Hills, in Custer County, South Dakota

Grand Canadian Rockies

The Grand Canadian Rockies

From some of the most majestic wilderness resorts in North America makes this Canadian adventure a guest favorite year after year.  The excitement begins with a welcome dinner and overnight stay at the Fairmont Waterfront in the heart of Vancouver.  It continues with city sightseeing and a ferry ride to Vancouver Island. 

Family Vacations

Traveling together is a gift to your family and lasts forever – you bond over shared discoveries, create indelible memories, and open up your children and grandchildren to new cultures and experiences instilling a spirit of adventure and enthusiasm for learning.  All ages and generations share the fun as you discover Europe on Tauck’s award-winning river cruises and odysseys by land … voyage in the Galapagos Islands on an expeditionary ship … zip line, river raft and ride horseback through Costa Rica … go on safari in Africa … and explore North America’s national parks with national parks with naturalists, hiking, flightseeing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and trail riding, just for starters!

When it comes to exotics, you really can snap amazing photos of the “Big Five” in Africa, go flightseeing at Mt. Everest, and snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef!  Tauck’s Exotics trips make the impossible possible, crating once-in-a-lifetime experiences in dream destinations – Australia and New Zealand, Africa, Asia, Antarctica, and Latin America.  Travel with peace of mind, spending extraordinary days learning the tango in Argentina … visiting a private Kyoto home … discovering wildlife on Earth Journeys, nature trips enhanced by Tauck’s exclusive partnership with BBC Earth.  Your accommodations are just as extraordinary – the world’s finest hotels, resorts and luxury safari lodges.

A vast, breathtaking land of snowcapped mountain peaks … pristine forests stretching as far as the eye can see, calving glaciers, totem poles, bald eagles, grizzlies and orcas.  This is Tauck’s Alaska … and you will experience it by land, sea and air on Tauck’s 15-day Grand Alaska! Cruise the Alaska coast, Glacier Bay, and the Inside Passage aboard a Princess ship … explore Denali and Wrangell-St. Elias National Parks … embark on a private flightseeing excursion, a jet boat cruise, a rafting adventure in a bald eagle preserve, a scenic rail journey and a private whale-watching cruise.  Meet an Iditarod champion musher and his Husky sled dogs, and a homesteader at her wilderness farm.  Stay in premier wilderness lodges throughout your trip and discover historic cities like Anchorage, Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and more!

For all of the day-to-day details of these amazing itineraries, contact Travel, Tours & Cruises.

Faith-Based Travel

When in God’s creation can you renew your faith and reflect upon centuries of religious history?  You can find all this on inspirational religious vacations through our partners, Globus and Cosmos.  You can explore the roots of your faith with a variety of uplifting itineraries that let you walk in the footsteps of spiritual leaders, and stand in the very places where events from Scripture actually occurred.  Created with almost nine decades of experience and a passion for travel, these faith-based vacations are the perfect trinity of faith, fellowship, and fun.

Nothing helps you feel more connected to the world around you than traveling.  Seeing the people and places that have sculpted what and who we are today is a life-changing experience that always leaves you feeling a part of something bigger than yourself.

View from the Walls of Jerusalem

Faith-based travel is the perfect way to build fellowship by intimately exploring the roots and stories of your faith with fellow believers.  The power of walking in the very footsteps of our treasured religious history; or standing in the very places where the stones of Scripture unfolded, is a moving experience that is magnified when you share it with others.

The Golden Gate once led into Jerusalem and onto the Temple Mount until it was sealed in 1541. 

Travel is the one thing you can buy that leaves you richer.  Rich with memories of a time cherished, rich with the knowledge that you can make a difference in another person’s life, rich with the belief that as humans, we can do so much to share the beauty of God’s love.

The Mount of Olives

As the standard in first-class escorted travel for 89 years, Globus makes religious travel an enriching experience filled with fellowship, outreach, enhanced personal faith, and divine memories.  Explore the roots of your faith with a Globus Religious Vacation, featuring some of the most spiritual places in the world.  These inclusive tours are full of one-of-a-kind experiences and most-see site to ensure you get the most out of your vacation.

The Tower of David

On a Globus religious vacation, you will explore the roots of your faith, walk in the footsteps of your spiritual leaders, and will have your most cherished beliefs come to life.  You will return hoe inspired and ready to travel again! 

• Follow the Way of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem, and float with ease on the Dead Sea.
• Explore the Cave of the Apocalypse in Patmos, and visit the mountainous island of Mykonos with its dazzling white houses.
• Reflect in the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, and admire the mighty Colosseum in Rome.
• Walk a portion of the Camino Pilgrim’s Way in Santiago de Compostela, and marvel at the masterpieces in the Prado Museum in Madrid.
• Follow the Camino, the way of the Apostle James.  On this walking pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, Spain, follow the Camino in the spirit of the Apostle James.  Stop in quaint Spanish towns ass you learn about the history of the route that pilgrims have been walking for more than a thousand years.
• Jewish Heritage – Central and Eastern Europe.  Explore the heart of Jewish heritage on this extraordinary trip.  Featuring guided sightseeing with an emphasis on Jewish sites in Warsaw, Krakow, Budapest, and Prague.
• Turkey and the Seven Churches of Revelation – Explore the best of Turkey on this inspirational journey that gives you an in-depth look at the Seven Churches of the Book of Revelation.  Featuring:  Istanbul, Troy area, Izmir, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, and Bursa.
• Jordan and the Cradle of Christianity – On this wonderful 8-day religious itinerary, see Scripture unfold before your eyes as you experience Jordan’s biblical highlights.  Featuring:  Amman, Petra, and the Dead Sea.
• Journey through the Holy Land, enjoy a cruise on the Sea of Galilee; visit the site of the first miracle in Cana, visit Mount of Beatitudes, the site where Jesus delivered his first sermon; visit the baptismal site on the River Jordan, In Jerusalem, visit the Garden Tomb, Garden of Gethsemane, the Western Wall, walk through the Jewish Quarter to Mount Zion, and much, much more.

Jerusalem's City Walls

For more than 50 years, Cosmos has been helping value-minded travelers see the world by offering affordable travel packages.  Now your dream of an enriching faith-based vacation can be a reality, thanks to religious vacations that start for as little as $117 per day.  With Cosmos, you will find a selection of packages to Poland, Mexico, Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, Israel and Jordan.  These tours are perfect for savvy, value-minded travels seeking an enriching faith-based travel experience. 

These are just some of the fabulous faith-based itineraries Globus and Cosmos offers.  For more information on detailed itineraries, contact Travel, Tours & Cruises.