Highlights |
| Escorted River Cruise Package |
| Inclusions |
- Flights NYC-Munich, Vienna-NYC
Other departure cities available.
Click on date of departure for selection and prices ♦
- 7 nights Deluxe River Cruise on MS Royal (Category D) outside cabin
- All transfers
- 20 meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
- Complimentary Champagne with breakfast
- Unlimited wine & beer with dinners
- Evening entertainment
- Shore excursions per itinerary
- Services of a cruise director throughout
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Guaranteed departures
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| Highlights |
- Gala Welcome Dinner
- Regensburg City Tour and Christmas Market
- Passau City Tour and Christmas Market
- Visit to Melk Abbey
- Vienna City Tour and Christmas Market
- Captain's Farewell Dinner
♦ For reservations completed 11 months or more prior to departure, flights cannot be confirmed at the time of booking. Flights will be confirmed once airline schedules are posted.
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A Danube Christmas Market Cruise - what a delightful way to celebrate the season's spectacular traditions! Experience wonderful holiday traditions in the countries where they were born. Sip from steaming mugs of hot mulled wine as you browse the market stalls stocked with ornaments, candies, trinkets and toys. There's no better way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit than sailing the Danube through Austria and Germany at Yuletide.
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Itinerary |
DAY 1, Sunday - Depart the USA
Depart the USA for Germany. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment
DAY 2, Monday - Arrive in Munich, Embark Cruise
Arrive in Munich and transfer to Regensburg to embark your cruise. Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure to relax, get acquainted with the ship, and meet your fellow Gutsy companions. This evening, dine at the captain's gala welcome dinner
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Dinner
DAY 3, Tuesday - Regensburg City Tour & Christmas Market
This morning, join a walking tour of Regensburg, one of Germany's best preserved medieval cities, that includes the Old Town Hall, the Dom St. Peter, the Roman Gates at Porta Pretoria, and one of the oldest stone bridges over the Danube. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the city on your own, before returning to the ship. In the evening, delight in a regional dinner while sailing for Passau, meeting point of the Inn, Ilz and Danube Rivers
Optional: Best of Bavaria
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4, Wednesday - Passau City Tour & Christmas Market
Today, enjoy morning sailing with afternoon arrival in Passau, where the Ilz, Inn, and Danube Rivers meet. Most known for St. Stephen's Cathedral and its historic Altstatd, or Old City district, the city boasts many fine examples of Baroque and Gothic architecture. Enjoy a brief walking tour, followed by time at leisure to discover Passau's charm for yourself. This evening wander the city's Christmas Market before setting sail
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5, Thursday - Daylight Sailing
Enjoy the day sailing the beautiful blue Danube and take the opportunity to relax and appreciate the ship's amenities
Optional: Full Day Tour of Salzburg
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6, Friday - Linz City Tour
Spend the morning sailing, arriving in Linz in the afternoon. Here, join in a brief city tour. Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure in Austria's third largest city. In the evening set sail for Vienna
Optional: Full Day Tour of Cesky Krumlov
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7, Saturday - Melk Abbey Tour
Today, join a tour of the massive Benedictine Abbey, built overlooking both Melk and the Danube River. A World Heritage Site, this beautiful abbey ranks among the most important landmarks in all of Europe and is considered the pinnacle of Baroque architecture, with a vast library containing over 85,000 books and a towering copula that stands 210 feet tall
Optional: Classical Viennese Concert
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8, Sunday - Vienna City Tour & Christmas Market
Your morning tour of Vienna begins with a drive along the famed Ringstrasse, Vienna's main boulevard, to the Hofburg Palace. Walk the courtyards to the Vienna State Opera House, continuing to view the Parliament, St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Natural History, and City Hall. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before joining the captain for a farewell dinner. This evening, stroll Vienna's charming Christmas Market and pick up a few ornaments or mementos to take back with you
Optional: Best of Vienna
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9, Monday - Depart for the USA
This morning, disembark and transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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Optionals |
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Best of Bavaria
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Day #3
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This tour consists of visits to two remarkable places. Start off with a tour of Liberation Hall, a monumental building commemorating the wars of liberation against Napoleon in the early 19th century. With a commanding view over the Danube Valley, this massive structure in the style of a Greek temple in the round dominates Mount Michelsberg. The interior walls are covered with splendid marble, and the floor bears the moving inscription "May the Germans never forget what made necessary the Struggle for Freedom and by what means they won," the words of King Ludwig I, who personally financed the completion of this great work. The next stop is Weltenburg Abbey, spectacularly located at the narrowest navigable point on the Bavarian Danube, the Danube Gorge, the oldest monastery in Bavaria. Founded around 620 AD, the Abbey has grown to include not only the spectacular Asam Baroque church but also the oldest monastery brewery in the world with almost 1000 years of brewing tradition. You will be able to taste some of these delicious beers that have made this brewery famous.
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Full Day Tour of Salzburg
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Day #5
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Full day excursion to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and famous cultural setting for the Sound of Music. Once ashore, enjoy a walking city tour to see some of the most historic sights for which Salzburg is known, including Mirabella Palace, the house where Mozart lived, Nonnberg Abbey, Salzburg Cathedral, and St. Peter's Cemetery. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and time at leisure to explore the streets of Salzburg on your own.
*The optional excursion to Salzburg and the included Passau city tour operate simultaneously. Passengers that purchase the optional excursion to Salzburg will not have the opportunity participate in the included Passau city tour. This will affect those passengers on sailing in March to October, as well as the Thanksgiving sailing.
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Full Day Tour of Cesky Krumlov
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Day #6
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This morning, travel through the picturesque landscape of Southern Bohemia for Cesky Krumlov, one of the most wonderful medieval cities in Central Europe, situated at a ford in the Vltava River. Declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site in 1992, Cesky Krumlov has earned an international reputation for its State Castle and Chateau, one of the largest and best preserved in Central Europe. Upon arrival, stroll through the narrow alleys of the historic old town, home to more than three-hundred buildings in the Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance styles, and enjoy the spectacular view of the castle and chateau. Afterwards, continue to a local restaurant for lunch, followed by free time to explore Cesky Krumlov on your own. Return to the ship in the late afternoon.
*The optional excursion to Cesky Krumlov and the included Linz city tour operate simultaneously. Passengers that purchase the optional excursion to Cesky Krumlov will not have the opportunity participate in the included Linz city tour.
** On the 6 night sailings in November, Cesky Krumlov and the Passau city tour operate simultaneously. Passengers that purchase the optional excursion to Cesky Krumlov will not have the opportunity participate in the included Passau city tour.
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Classical Viennese Concert
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Day #7
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What better way to dive into the heart of Viennese culture than to enjoy a delightful evening in the City of Music, the center of the Western musical world since Renaissance times. Attend a fantastic concert performance in the city and enjoy the ambiance of a world-class concert hall, the epitome of the refined life, as you appreciate the classical masterpieces of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss, two of Vienna's most famous citizens. Listen in awe as the musicians bring to life the passionate strains of Mozart, a child prodigy who blossomed into one of history's greatest composers and Strauss, the Waltz King, who composed the Blue Danube, arguably the world's most famous waltz. The orchestral arrangement is accompanied by a professional dance performance, recalling the golden age of the 19th-century Viennese ballrooms. At intermission, sip a glass of sparkling wine and mingle with the audience before returning for the conclusion of the concert.
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Best of Vienna
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Day #8
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Enjoy a guided tour of one of the world's busiest opera houses, the Vienna State Opera*. Originally constructed in 1869, the structure was completely remodeled following its destruction during the Second World War. See the grand entrance foyer and main staircase, the elegant tea salon and Marble Room, the Gustav Mahler Room, and finally the highlight of the tour, the magnificent Auditorium.
From the Opera House, board your bus and wind your way up Kahlenberg via the scenic Höhenstrasse. The mountain sits at the northeastern foothills of the Eastern Alps and rises well over 1500 feet. Ascend an alpine forest road to reach the remarkable Kahlenberg Vista Point. From here, enjoy a panoramic view of Vienna with the Danube cutting through the city. Afterward, continue on to Grinzing, where you'll have the opportunity to experience true Austrian Gemütlichkeit, which is a sense of cosiness, belonging, and unhurried enjoyment, at a local Heuriger. Heurigen sell only their own wines and provide a warm, welcoming environment for guests. Here, taste a few of the local wines and enjoy the atmosphere.
*When the Vienna State Opera is not available due to closure, a visit to the Haus der Musik or another musical venue will be included
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Rates & Hotels |
Click On A Date To Book Online
* All Prices are in USD
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This package is currently unavailable. Please check back later or call Gutsy Women Travel for more information.
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*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, cruise port charges of $125, optional tours, and gratuities (see Terms & Conditions).
Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
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 | The MS Amadeus Royal has 68 spacious outside cabins and 4 suites each fully air-conditioned with private bath facilities, shower, telephone and satellite color TV. [more] |
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| The MS Amadeus Royal has 68 spacious outside cabins and 4 suites each fully air-conditioned with private bath facilities, shower, telephone and satellite color TV. [more] |
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| The MS Amadeus Royal has 68 spacious outside cabins and 4 suites each fully air-conditioned with private bath facilities, shower, telephone and satellite color TV. [more] |
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| The MS Amadeus Royal has 68 spacious outside cabins and 4 suites each fully air-conditioned with private bath facilities, shower, telephone and satellite color TV. [more] |
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| The MS Amadeus Royal has 68 spacious outside cabins and 4 suites each fully air-conditioned with private bath facilities, shower, telephone and satellite color TV. [more] |
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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.
| River Cruises - Passport required. All passengers are responsible to ensure that they obtain any required entry visas. In particular, non-US citizens are responsible to check the entry requirements of each country to be visited during the itinerary. Passengers arriving without correct and complete documentation may be denied boarding. Passports are kept securely at the reception and are controlled regularly by local immigration authorities.
| Czech Republic - Passport required. For US citizens, a visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
| Austria - Passport required. For US citizens, a visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
| Germany - Passport required. For US citizens, a visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
| | 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’ll 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.
| | 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 | Czech Republic - Spring and Autumn: 25–70ºF; Summer: 50–85ºF; Winter: 10–35ºF. Temperatures vary significantly within the country, with Brno and Ostrava having substantially more extreme temperature ranges compared to Prague and Plzen. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Czech Republic Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#central-europe-weather.
| Austria - Spring and Autumn: 45–60ºF; Summer: 70–80ºF; Winter: 30–40ºF. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Austria Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#austria-germany-europe-weather
| Germany - Spring and Autumn: 40 – 60ºF, Summer: 65 – 80ºF, Winter: 25 – 40ºF. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Germany Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#austria-germany-europe-weather
| River Cruises - Temperatures vary according to regional climate and season. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
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| E-tickets | Most airlines now require that we provide e-tickets in place of paper tickets. At check-in, you should be ready to provide your e-ticket itinerary and ticket numbers, as well as identification (valid passport) to the agent. In a few cases where e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive your tickets in a paper form.
| | 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.
| | 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.
| European River Cruises - Please label your luggage clearly with your name and cabin number.
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| Arrival Procedures | If your program includes airport arrival transfers, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. You will be met by our local representative after you pass through customs. Look for someone holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. If 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.
| Regensburg Port Information - The dock is located in the city center on Marc Aurel Ufer. It is at the Donaulaende close to the Eiserne Bruecke (Eiserne Bridge) and next to the a large parking area named "Donaumarkt".
| Vienna Port Information - The dock is located at Nussdorf.
| | 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. |
| 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.
| | 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!
| Czech Republic - Some favorite souvenirs include Bohemian glass or crystal, porcelain, pottery, exquisite Christmas ornaments, and fine lace and embroidery work. Craftsmen and artisans often form associations and run their own retail stores, where you can often find high quality workmanship. Jewelry incorporating semi-precious stones, especially garnets, is another Czech specialty.
| Austria - Austria is renowned for its high quality winter sports equipment, wine, as well as an assortment of top-of-the-line, handcrafted items, including crystal, wood carvings, textiles, and fine leather. If you are traveling during the Christmas season, the Christmas markets are a must-see, not only for the goods but also for the hot mulled wine and unforgettable atmosphere.
| Germany - In addition to large department stores featuring a wide range of goods, Germany has many specialized shops that feature high quality items such as optical instruments, knives, glassware, china, handcrafted toys, and antique books and maps, among many others.
| | 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.
| European River 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.
We are not able to offer a money-changing service on board as this would contravene official regulations. Please use the official exchange offices at the harbors.
Ship Account and Payment:
There is a cashless system on board. All on board expenditures (in the bar, restaurant, shop, optional tours etc.) are added to the ship's account. At the end of the cruise, the closing invoice will be presented to the passengers for settlement. Payment can be made by cash in euro or by credit card (American Express, VISA, MasterCard, Diners Club). Please note we cannot except USD as a form of cash payment. Passenger's are not eligible for a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund for purchases made on board the ship.
| Czech Republic - The Czech Koruna is the currency of the Czech Republic.
| Austria - The Euro is the currency of Austria.
| Germany - The Euro is the currency of Germany.
| | 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, Russian, and Ukrainian River Cruises) - *Private car tours(small groups of 2-14 passengers):
$12 to $16 per person per day for each day of sightseeing - *Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person - *Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner) - *Chamber maid:
$1 per person per day
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.
| European River Cruises - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places. Restaurant bills often include a service charge.
Gratuities are a matter of personal discretion. The following guidelines are provided only as a suggestion. Gratuities for the crew (shared by all crew members) may be paid via the on board ship account and be in the range of $7-10 per person per day (approximately 5-7 euros). This gratuity does not cover the Cruise Director(s) for whom a consideration of $6 or $7 per person per day is appropriate. Gratuities for Cruise Directors may not be charged to your on board account and must be paid in cash. You may also tip other service providers such as local guides, bus drivers and others who may have provided special services. Gratuities for Cruise Directors may be left in the tip box at the front desk at the conclusion of the cruise.
| Czech Republic - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. Taxi drivers do not expect gratuities and rounding up the fare is usually sufficient.
| Austria - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge.
| Germany - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge.
| | 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.
| European River 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. Please take further information concerning safety from the notice on your cabin door. Life jackets will be distributed on the sundeck. When leaving the ship, exchange your cabin card for your personal land card at the reception. This card 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.
| | Disabled Facilities - European River Cruises | Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information.
| | Embarkation | Embarkation will begin at 4 pm unless otherwise noted in your trip itinerary. Check your itinerary carefully for the port of embarkation and disembarkation. In the event that you arrive independently to the port of embarkation, note the location carefully. Please ensure that you are always on board before the ship's scheduled time of departure. For same day directions, please contact the Senior Cruise Director.
| | Disembarkation | You will receive all relevant information concerning disembarkation in detail by your cruise director on the afternoon of your last day onboard. Passengers who have purchased a transfer will be required to place their luggage outside of their cabin a few hours prior to their scheduled time of departure. Details will be advised locally. All passengers and luggage must be off board the ship at the final disembarkation time noted in your itinerary.
| | On Your Cruise - European River Cruises | Attire:
Cruise attire is casual for daytime activities. During the evenings, a jacket is recommended for gentlemen, and slacks or skirts for ladies. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes and pack an umbrella in case of inclement weather.
Language:
The official language on board is English, although other languages may be spoken. All announcements and information sheets will be provided in English. Optional tours may be performed by a bilingual guide.
Meals and Dietary Restrictions:
Seating will be allocated on the day of embarkation and will remain the same throughout the cruise. Please see your Maitre d'hotel who is at your disposal for special needs. Passengers requiring special diet must advise Gate 1 Cruises at the least 20 days prior to departure. However we are pleased to assist within the limits of those products available on board.
Smoking:
Smoking is only allowed in designated areas on the sundeck. Please do not throw cigarettes overboard.
Amenities:
A hairdryer is supplied to all cabins. Laundry service is available on board for an additional charge, however the ship is not equipped to care for dry cleaning. Charges are displayed on board. Valuables can be deposited in the cabin safe.
Excursions:
During your journey you will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of shore excursions. If you have not pre-booked the excursions, there will be an opportunity to do so on board with your Cruise Director. These excursions will be charged to your on board account (VISA, Mastercard, American Express) or can be paid for in euro. Note we cannot accept USD as payment for shore excursions. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.HTML#optional.
Walking:
River Cruise tours dock at inland towns and excursions may include a fair amount of walking on uneven or cobblestone streets. Many ports have limited ramps. You may also experience "double-docking." In some ports, where there are limited docks available for the number of visiting ships, you may find your ship docked adjacent to another and may have to walk across one or more other river cruise ships before reaching the dock area.
Ports:
For information about the ports of embarkation and disembarkation, please visit http://www.gate1travel.com/european-river-cruise/about-ports.aspx.
Children:
The vessels do not maintain facilities or services for children aboard the cruise. We regret that we cannot accommodate children under 12 years of age.
Telephone:
All cabins are equipped with direct dialing for an additional fee. If you need to be contacted while on board the ship, please provide the emergency numbers outlined in your documents to family and/or friends. It is possible that the emergency numbers are out of the telephone network at the time of dialing. If this is the case, a message will be provided by the telephone company in German. It is advisable to hang-up and dial a short time later.
Email and Post:
You are able to send and receive emails on the computer on board for a small fee. Any mail with postage can be handed in at the reception. It will be posted at the next port of call.
| | Water Level | A rise or fall in the river water level can prevent the ship from passing under bridges and/or moving further along the river. This may cause part or all of the cruise itinerary to be operated by motor coach. If this becomes necessary, Gate 1 Travel will endeavor to provide equal or similar services, however no cruise will be canceled and no monetary compensation will be made for those changes. A fluctuation in water level can change in a matter of hours and may occur at any time of the year. In this case, the situation will be closely monitored by captain and crew to ensure services are delivered with as few substitutions as possible. If you have planned independent travel prior to the cruise it is advisable to leave local contact information with Gate 1 Travel before departing the USA. Should an embarkation point be changed, Gate 1 Travel will attempt to contact passengers by phone or email.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | Czech Republic
- Ambulance/Medical: 112 or 155
- Fire: 150
- Police: 158
| Austria
- General Emergency: 112 or 122
| Germany
- Ambulance/Fire: 112
- Police: 110
| | Languages | Czech Republic - Czech is the local language. German and limited English are generally spoken in tourist areas.
| Austria - German is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| Germany - German 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.
| Czech Republic - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| Austria - The voltage used is 230 volts.
| Germany - The voltage used is 230 volts.
| European River Cruises - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | Czech Republic - Dress should be conservatively casual. Normal courtesies should be observed. Please note that punctuality is important, and if you arrive late at the theater or opera, you may be denied entrance.
| Austria - Shaking hands is a customary greeting and normal courtesies should be observed. First names are not used when being introduced, but after a relationship exists, using first names is appropriate. Politeness is highly valued, and saying hello and goodbye is important even in shops and restaurants.
| Germany - Shaking hands is a customary greeting and normal courtesies should be observed. First names are not used when being introduced, but after a relationship exists, using first names is appropriate. Politeness is highly valued, and saying hello and goodbye is important even in shops and restaurants.
| | Holidays - Czech Republic |
| Holidays 2009 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Days |
Mar 21 |
Good Friday |
Mar 24 |
Easter Monday |
Apr 28 |
Spring Festival (Monday following Orthodox Easter) |
May 1 |
Labor Day |
May 8 |
Liberation Day |
| May 12 |
Whit Monday |
May 22 |
Corpus Christi |
| Jul 5 |
Saints Cyril and Methodius |
Jul 6 |
Jan Hus Day |
Sep 28 |
St. Wenceslas Day (Czech Statehood Day)y |
Oct 28 |
Independent Czechoslovak Day |
Nov 17 |
Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day |
Dec 24 |
Christmas Eve |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
St. Stephen's Day |
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| | Holidays - Austria |
| Holidays 2009 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
Jan 6 |
Feast of the Epiphany |
Mar 21 |
Good Friday |
Mar 24 |
Easter Monday |
May 1 |
Labor Day and Ascension Day |
May 12 |
Whit Monday |
| May 22 |
Corpus Christi |
Aug 15 |
Feast of the Assumption |
| Oct 26 |
National Day |
Nov 1 |
All Saints' Day |
Dec 8 |
Immaculate Conception |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
St Stephen's Day |
|
| | Holidays - Germany |
| Holidays 2009 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
Jan 6 |
Feast of the Epiphany |
Mar 21 |
Good Friday |
Mar 24 |
Easter Monday |
May 1 |
Labor Day and Ascension Day |
May 12 |
*Whit Monday |
| May 22 |
Corpus Christi |
Aug 15 |
*Feast of the Assumption |
| Oct 3 |
Day of Unity |
| Oct 31 |
*Day of Reformation |
Nov 1 |
All Saints' Day |
Nov 17 |
Day of Prayer and Repentance |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day (First Day) |
Dec 26 |
Christmas (Second Day) |
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*Please note: Feast of the Epiphany, Corpus Christi, Feast of the Assumption, Day of Reformation, All Saints' Day and Day of Prayer and Repentance are not observed in all areas.
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