Highlights |
Sea Cruise Package Includes
- Round trip flights NYC-Rome
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
- Airline fuel surcharges
- 12 nights accommodations
- Transfer from hotel to port
- 31 meals: 12 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners
Also Available
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Itinerary |
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 DAY 1 - Depart the USA
Depart the USA for Rome. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in flight entertainment for your journey
DAY 2 - Arrive in Rome
Arrive in Rome and transfer independently to your hotel. Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure
Overnight: Rome
DAY 3 - Day at leisure in Rome
Enjoy the day at leisure in Rome to explore independently. Perhaps visit the ancient Roman Forum, the political center during the Roman Republic, or the Vatican Museums and Michelangelo's breathtaking Sistine Chapel
Optional: Vatican Museums (AM) ▲
Optional: Ancient Rome (PM)
Overnight: Rome
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4 - Embark cruise
Transfer to the port in Civitavecchia. Embark the cruise, and begin sailing for Marseilles at 4:00 pm
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 5 - Afternoon in Marseilles
Arrive in Marseilles, the oldest city in France, at 1:00 pm and enjoy the day at leisure. With a history dating back more than 2,600 years, Marseilles has grown enormously from its humble trading roots. Since becoming the first Greek port in Western Europe (circa 600 B.C.), with a population of 1000, Marseilles has become France's second-largest city and its leading commercial port on the Mediterranean. Overflowing with beautiful architecture, opulent theaters, and fine restaurants, Marseilles is among the most chic hot spots on France's southern coast. At 7:00 pm depart for Messina
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6 - Day at Sea
Spend the day relaxing on board the Orient Queen. Spend some time exploring the different facilities the ship has to offer. Relax by one of the pools and enjoy the sun. Maybe try your luck at the casino or play a game of miniature golf. Continue to sail to Messina
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7 - Day in Messina
Arrive in Sicily's third largest city at 8:00 am. Messina is Sicily's closest point to the mainland, almost touching the toe of Italy's boot. It is built on a terrace overlooking the sea and has a delightful medieval character. Ship sails at 2:00 pm for Kotor
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8 - Evening in Kotor (Montenegro)
Arrive in Kotor at 2:00 pm. Despite a turbulent history, Kotor has preserved the atmosphere of a typical medieval Mediterranean town. The town is encircled by 65-foot-high walls that are nearly fifty feet thick in some places. The imposing Fort of Saint Ivan rises above the town, towering at a height of over 800 feet. This evening, sail for Split at 9:00 pm
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9 - Full day in Split
Arrive in Split at 8:00 am. From Diocletian's grand palace to the market to the sunny seaside promenade, Split represents the best of a typical Mediterranean city. Sail for Venice at 4:00 pm
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10 - Full day in Venice
Arrive at 7:00 am in Venice, a romantic city known for its art and luxury. Built upon 122 small islands in the Adriatic, just off the eastern Italian coast, the city of Venice features canals rather than roads, creating Europe's largest car-free zone. Instead travel by water bus or gondola, the classical Venetian boat now used mostly for tourists and special ceremonies. The city is full of major attractions, including the famous St. Mark's Basilica. Depart at 4:00 pm to sail to Dubrovnik
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 11 - Afternoon in Dubrovnik
At 12:30 pm, arrive in Dubrovnik. Often hailed as the most beautiful city in Croatia, Dubrovnik was once a powerful rival of Venice, vying with the Venetian Republic for naval supremacy and control over regional trade. Today that rivalry continues, though the edge has softened somewhat with a focus now on beauty, hospitality, and a charming atmosphere. The Dominican monastery, the Dubrovnik Cathedral, Rector's Palace, the grand city walls, and St. Blaise's Church are all must-see attractions. Ship departs at 5:00 pm for Corfu
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 12 - Morning in Corfu
Arrive at 8:00 am in Corfu, the wooded isle of the Phaeacians, Odysseus’ last stop on his long journey home to Ithaca, and the best known of the lonian islands. Walk through the city and notice the clean, cobblestone streets, upscale restaurants and choice bistros. Winding roads pass groves of ancient, gnarled olive trees which contrast with the elegant sophistication of Parisian-style arcades. At 1:00 pm begin sailing to Lipari
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 13 - Morning in Lipari
Arrive in Lipari for a morning at leisure from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. The largest Aeolian Island, Lipari is a volcanic archipelago located just off the northern coast of Sicily in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Lipari was formed from volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago and you can still find pumice and volcanic glass covering the island. At noon sail to Rome
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 14 - Depart for the USA
This morning, arrive in Civitavecchia at 6:00 am and transfer independently to the airport in Rome for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
▲ April 23, July 2, September 10 departures: The Vatican Museums optional will not operate due to site closures on Sundays.
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Optionals |
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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| #2 Ancient Rome |
Day #3 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Mar 2011 $76
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Today's tour will feature the classic splendor of the Roman Empire. Leave Piazza San Bernardo, adorned by Moses' Fountain, and head to Piazza Venezia where you will admire the Memorial to King Vittorio Emanuele II and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Continue to the square of the Capitol, and admire the unique sight of the Forum, Colosseum and Palatine Hill, one of Rome's most ancient districts. Walk along the pavement of the original Roman grid, which crosses the ruins of the Roman Forum, the Curia, and the Reggia. Enjoy views of the Temple of Vesta, the Arch of Titus and the Triumphal Arch of Constantine. Continue with an inside tour of the Colosseum, a giant amphitheater used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, and the largest building ever built in the Roman Empire. The tour concludes with a visit to the church of St. Peter in Chains, where Michelangelo's famous statue of Moses is housed.
Departs at 3 p.m. (Mar 16-Nov 15) and 2.30 p.m. (Nov 16-Mar 15) from Via V. E. Orlando, 95. Pick-up from hotel 60 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off in city center.
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| #3 Vatican Museums |
Day #3 |
30 Jun 2010 - 13 Aug 2010 $85
16 Aug 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $85
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This morning, depart from the Piazza San Bernardo, site of Moses' Fountain, and travel along Via Bissolati and Via Veneto. Pass by Villa Borghese, one of Europe's most elegant parks, and previous estate of the noble Borghese family. The tour continues to the Vatican Museum and Galleries, where you will find galleries of chandeliers, tapestries, geographical maps, the Sobiesky Hall and the Immaculate Conception Hall. From here, visit the Sistine Chapel and behold the great frescoes by Michelangelo. Passing through the Vatican Hall, continue to the Basilica of Saint Peter, one of the four major basilicas of Rome, and burial site of its namesake, Saint Peter.
Please note that on Wednesdays during the Holy Father's Audience, the visit inside St. Peter's Basilica will not take place.
Departs at 7:30 a.m. (Mar 16-Nov 15); and 8:30 a.m. (Nov 16-Mar 31) from Via V. E. Orlando, 95. Pick-up from hotel 45 minutes prior to departure time (between 6:30 a.m. and 7:15 a.m for Mar 16-Nov 15 and between 7:30 a.m. and 8:15 a.m for Nov 16-Mar 31). Drop-off in city center.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Rates & Hotels |
Step 1: Select Your Choice of Cabin & Hotel Plans Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation
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*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, port taxes of $155, optional transfers, shore excursions, and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Kindly note, passengers disembarking to the airport on Day 14 should select flights departing 10:00 am or later in order to provide adequate time to transfer to the port. The Rome airport is approximately an hour drive from the port.
Plan: Cabin IA Standard Inside: the Apr 13, 2010 departure will be accommodated at the Grand Hotel Palatino in Rome.
Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
| | Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock.
| Louis Cruises - Please refer to Louis Cruises' Conditions of Carriage, which can be found at http://www.louiscruises.com/coc
| | Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another | When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code + destination Country Code + Phone Number.
For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If the international number you wish to call starts with a 0 (zero), you must drop this starting digit when dialing the number.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| | Climate & Clothing | Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Italy Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather
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| E-Tickets & Check-In Procedures |
Please review the flight itinerary included in these documents. Print and carry a copy of the air itinerary which contains the record locator (airline reservation number) and e-ticket number(s). At check-in, be prepared to provide your government issued identification (valid passport) and your e-ticket itinerary/ ticket numbers to the agent in order to receive your boarding pass.
An e-ticket (electronic ticket) represents the purchase of an airline seat. This form of ticket has replaced almost all formerly provided paper tickets. The e-ticket exists only as a digital record in the airlines computers. In most cases your reservation will be confirmed solely on the basis of your government-issued identification. However it may still be necessary to present the e-ticket itinerary which contains your specific reservation code and ticket number(s). Once confirmed, your luggage will be checked-in and a boarding pass provided.
Advance online check-in is available on some airlines. If available, you may enter your airline confirmation number at the airline's website, and print the boarding pass on your home printer within twenty-four hours of departure. Airlines without advance online check-in require you to present your identification and e-ticket numbers at the airport self-service kiosk or check-in counter.
When e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive paper tickets.
If your tour program includes foreign domestic flights, and those tickets are not included together with the e-ticket itinerary in these documents, a separate voucher(s) confirming those services will be included. You will receive those tickets at your destination from a Gate 1 representative.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions. Many airlines have begun to apply charges for checked bags. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
| Louis Cruises - Please label your luggage clearly with your name and cabin number.
| | Alitalia Flights | Please note flight schedules can change or may be cancelled while you are traveling. It is best to re-confirm your flights 48-24 hours prior to travel.
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| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
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| Hotels | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard.
| | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later.
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| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day.
Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus. Please note that many banks and most vendors will not accept or exchange $100 bills. We suggest to carry $20 bills or smaller.
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy.
| Louis Cruises - The Euro is the currency used aboard the ship. Please note that while calling at port, other currencies may be used depending on the country being visited.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally | On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day
- Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day
- Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours)
- River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European River Cruises)
- Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person
- Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner)
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge.
| Louis Cruises - An amount of 8 Euro (approx. US$11), per person, per day for passengers above 16 years of age will be charged directly to your account. This amount is distributed among all cabin and restaurant personnel. The amount of gratuity may be adjusted by filling out a Passengers Gratuities Change Form. These forms are available at the reception desk from the second day of cruise and until payment is settled.
Please note that individual gratuities are not permitted on board.
| | On-board Cashless System - Louis Cruises | You will receive an Access Card, which will serve as both your boarding pass and onboard charge card. Sign it upon receipt and store it securely as you would any other charge or identification card.
There is a cashless system on board. All on board expenditures (in the bar, restaurant, shop, etc.) are charged to your Access Card, and cash is not accepted at any of the ship's outlets. Your card's limit can be extended by verifying a credit card at Reception . At the end of your cruise, the closing invoice will be presented for settlement. Payment can be made by cash, credit card (American Express, VISA, MasterCard, Diners Club) and traveler's checks. Personal checks are not accepted.
Children's Access Cards may be restricted by taking them to Reception for re-encoding with a reduced limit.
If you misplace your Access Card, report this immediately to Reception. Otherwise, another person may use the card and you will be liable for their charges. | | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| Louis Cruises - You are on a ship with a high safety standard and reliable crew. In case of emergency, we ask you to follow the instructions of your crew. Swipe your card when you leave and board the ship. This helps ensure your security by allowing the crew to immediately determine if all passengers are on board before continuing the cruise. While in port, please keep your cabin door locked.
| | Cruise Embarkation / Disembarkation | Embarkation commences three hours before the departure time of the vessel. Your passport and cruise voucher should be ready to present to the embarkation staff. The ship's staff collects and holds your passport for the duration of the cruise. A receipt will be given to you and should be presented at the designated time when passport will be returned to you prior to disembarkation. At embarkation you will be issued with your own personal embarkation card which acts as your on board payment card and the security for embarking and disembarking the vessel.
Embarking in Athens:
Piraeus Cruise Terminal: 1, Akti Xaveriou
In order to ensure the prompt departure of vessels from the port of Piraeus, passengers must be at the port of Piraeus no later than one hour prior to the vessel's departure.
Port Agent Main Office Telephone: 30 210 4294280
Disembarking in Athens:
Upon arrival, please proceed through customs with your luggage.
With Gate 1 transfer: Meet Gate 1 representative holding Gate 1 sign after clearing immigration and customs. You will be responsible for carrying your luggage to the vehicle.
Transferring independently: Please note that local taxi service from the cruise port begins around 9:00 a.m. Disembarkation time is generally 7:00 a.m.
Embarking in Istanbul:
Istanbul Cruise Terminal: Ships usually dock in Sali Bazaar, but sometimes they dock in Karakoe. It is advisable to contact the port agent to check the exact location of the ship's docking position, since this is known only a few hours prior to the ship's arrival.
Port Agent Main Office Telephone: 90 212 2475044 66
Disembarking in Istanbul:
Meet Gate 1 representative with a Gate 1 sign tour representative outside the port building after immigration and customs formalities. A Turkish visa is required for those disembarking in Istanbul for an overnight stay ($20 visa fee is payable to Turkish authorities upon disembarkation). | | On Your Cruise - Louis Cruises | Attire:
Light weight and preferably cotton clothes, light jacket, light sweater, and comfortable shoes are recommended. Shorts are not allowed and the shoulders must be covered during visits to places of worship.
On board cruise ship: The daytime dress code is casual (shorts and t-shirts for example). Swimsuits are not allowed in public areas or restaurants, except for lunch buffet on deck.
The majority of evenings on board are country club casual. One evening is usually designated "Greek Night" and guests are encouraged to wear blue and white. There may be one formal evening, which will be indicated on the daily program, with suit and tie suggested for gentlemen, and a cocktail dress or pantsuit suggested for women.
Meals and Dietary Restrictions:
Upon embarkation, the Maitre d'Hotel will take your dining room reservation and assign your table. You will have the choice, depending on availability, of main or late sitting. Breakfast and lunch are free-sitting and no reservation is required.
All dietary restrictions, particularly for medical reasons should be advised at time of booking. While every effort will be made to accommodate, Gate 1 cannot guarantee every restaurant will be able to comply to the fullest extent. In general, beverages are not included with meals. Dinners in tour packages are based on set menus and some buffets.
Smoking:
Smoking is prohibited in all areas except one designated lounge, the casino and on open decks. Smoking is not permitted in the cabins.
Casino:
The Casino will be open during sailing times only. Guests under the age of 18 are not permitted to enter. Your ship's account card may not be used to play in the casino.
Excursions:
Shore excursions are not included, and can be purchased on board only. Cruise itineraries and ships are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, cruise ships may be chartered and/or departure dates canceled after publication, in which case all moneys will be refunded. Gate 1 takes no responsibility for ship substitutions or
itinerary changes imposed by a cruise line.
2010 shore excursion itineraries and rates:
Aquamarine and Cristal: http://www.gate1travel.com/cruises/ships/louis_excursions.aspx
Orient Queen: http://www.gate1travel.com/cruises/ships/louis-orient-queen/excursions.aspx
Louis Majesty: http://www.gate1travel.com/cruises/ships/louis-majesty/excursions.aspx
Ports:
For information about the ports of embarkation and disembarkation, please visit http://www.gate1travel.com/cruises/portsofcall-east-mediterranean.aspx
Email:
Internet facilities are available on board for a fee that is charged to your shipboard account. | | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | Italy
- Ambulance/Medical: 118
- Fire: 115
- Police: 112
| Louis Cruises
| | Languages | Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| Louis Cruises - The voltage used is 110 or 220 volts, depending on the ship.
110 volts: Aquamarine, Sapphire
220 volts: Coral, Cristal, Louis Majesty, Orient Queen, Aegean Pearl
| | Code of Conduct | Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants.
| | Holidays - Italy |
| Holidays 2010 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
Jan 6 |
Epiphany |
Apr 4 |
Easter |
Apr 25 |
Liberation Day |
| May 1 |
Labor Day |
Jun 2 |
Republic Day |
Aug 15 |
Assumption of the Virgin |
Nov 1 |
All Saints Day |
| Dec 8 |
Immaculate Conception |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
St. Stephen's Day |
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Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include:
| Catania: |
February 3 - 5 (St. Agatha) |
Sorrento: |
February 14 (St. Antoninus) |
Florence, Genoa & Turin: |
June 24 (St John the Baptist) |
Amalfi: |
June 27 (St. Andrew) |
| Rome: |
June 29 (St. Peter & Paul) |
Siena: |
July 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace |
Palermo: |
July 15 (St. Rosalia) |
Como |
August 31 (St. Abbondio) |
| Naples: |
September 19 (St. Gennaro) |
Bologna: |
October 4 (St. Petronius) |
Trieste: |
November 3 (St. Giusto) |
Venice: |
November 21 (St. Mark) |
| Montecatini: |
December 4 (St. Barbara) |
Bari: |
December 6 (St. Nicholas) |
Milan: |
December 7 (St. Ambrose) |
| | Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy | General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City.
Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to
wear a tie and jacket. | | Food and Meals | As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure to info@gate1travel.com.
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