PHONE1800 630 343
Daytime dress is casual. Ensure that you wear shoes and a cover-up over a bathing suit when walking through the interior of the ship. Most evenings, Smart Casual is appropriate and can be defined as slacks and sports shirts or sweater for men and a skirt or trousers and sweater or blouse for women. Shorts, flip-flops, swimwear, distressed jeans and men's tank tops are best left to daytime and the poolside. For Gala Nights jacket and tie are appropriate for gentlemen, while ladies wear a cocktail dress or gown.
When you tour religious sites in Israel, be sure to wear clothing covering your shoulders and knees to respect the religious practices of the region.
About a third of people on the cruise ships are singles. We will endeavour to match people in twin-share cabins when available to save you the single supplement. The Travelrite team will look after you. Travelling with a group offers security and camaraderie.
Grandly proportioned and recently enhanced, Oosterdam offers an on-board experience defined by spacious comfort and the latest amenities. Guests aboard Oosterdam will not only enjoy elegant dining rooms, a two million dollars art and antique collection, wide teak decks and spacious staterooms many with private verandahs, but also new and exciting venues, stateroom options along with a complete update to all stateroom furnishings. Oosterdam provides the ultimate on-board experience with a graceful combination of classic cruise ship features and state-of-the-art amenities. A voyage on Oosterdam is an experience to be savoured and remembered!
Bernard Salt AM is widely regarded by business and the broader community. He was one of Australia’s leading social commentators. He built his corporate career working at the highest level as a partner in a global advisory firm. He writes two weekly columns for The Australian newspaper that officially discuss consumer trends but often spill into such topics as modern manners, generations and social mores. His smashed avocado column went global instantly and continues to shape popular culture. Bernard is one of the most in-demand speakers on the corporate speaking circuit. He is known for identifying such social trends as the ‘seachange shift’, the ‘bank of mum & dad’, the ‘man drought’ and that much-favoured hipster-haunt, the ‘goat’s cheese curtain’. Bernard has popularised social commentary through his books, columns and media appearances for 25 years. His body of work is encapsulated in six popular best-selling books, a business TV series on Sky Business and a Podcast series. Bernard will be leading the Holy Lands and Ancient Kingdoms Cruise, delivering a series of presentations on the outlook for Australian culture and society in the 2020s and beyond. Bernard looks forward to meeting and chatting with you over dinner.
VIEW ITINERARYDay 1 Thursday 8 June, 2023 Departure
Today we depart on our flights to Venice, Italy.
Day 2 Friday 9 June, 2023 Venice, Italy
Early afternoon we arrive in Venice and are transferred to our hotel. Built
on 117 islands, Venice was once the head of the Mediterranean empire. We
will have two nights here before the cruise to enjoy the canals, renaissance
palazzos and of course, the fabulous food and wine from the Veneto region.
The rest of the day will be free for individual exploration.
Day 3 Saturday 10 June, 2023 Venice, Italy
Today we will have a sightseeing tour of this beautiful city. We visit St Mark’s
Square, see the Grand Canal, St Mark’s Cathedral, the Doge’s Palace and
the Bridge of Sighs. We will wind our way through the narrow alleyways to
the market square of the Rialto. There will be free time in the afternoon to
explore the meandering laneways and bridges of this magical city. Perhaps
try an espresso or gelato and take in the sights and sounds of Venice.
Day 4 Sunday 11 June, 2023 Embarkation
This morning we are transferred to the nearby city of Trieste where we
embark the MS Oosterdam.
Day 5 Monday 12 June, 2023 Day at Sea
A day at sea to explore the magnificent facilities of the ship. In the afternoon
Bernard will deliver an engaging insight.
Day 6 Tuesday 13 June, 2023 Katakolon/Olympia, Greece
This morning we visit Olympia, the site of the ancient Olympic Games. The
Ancient Greeks flocked here every four years for more than a millennium
to celebrate the sacred games dedicated to Zeus. We visit the ruins of the
Sanctuary, with its athletic quadrangles, stadium, temples and treasuries;
then visit the modern Archaeological Museum, a treasure house of Archaic,
Classical and Roman sculptures, including the famous Niki Winged Goddess
of Victory.
Day 7 Wednesday 14 June, 2023 Athens, Greece
Today we call into the ancient city of Athens, capital of Greece. Athens is
the home of the Acropolis and the ultimate in ancient Greek architectural
perfection, the Parthenon, built to honour the goddess Athena. Our sightseeing
tour today delves into the glorious history of Athens. We see such famous
sights as the first modern Olympic stadium, the Acropolis, and Parthenon. We
will have time in the Plaka district, a maze of winding streets with shops, café’s
and restaurants and one of the wonders of the ancient world.
Day 8 Thursday 15 June, 2023 Day at sea
A day at sea to explore the magnificent facilities of the ship. In the afternoon
Bernard will deliver an engaging talk for the tour group.
Day 9 Friday 16 June, 2023 Jerusalem, Israel
Today we will enjoy one of the most inspiring cities in the world, renowned
for its historical significance, spiritual symbolism and visual splendour –
Jerusalem. We travel by coach first to the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth
and the biblical land of Lot and his family, and also known for its salty water. We continue to Jerusalem and for a view at Mount of Olives. We will continue
to Kidron Valley to reach Zion Gate. Our tour of Jerusalem will include a
visit to the last Supper Church, to the Western Wall and walk along the Via
Dolorosa (Way of Sorrow) This walk follows the route of Jesus Christ after his
condemnation as he bears his cross towards execution at Calvary. We visit the
Church of the Holy Sepulchre which is the highlight of a visit to Jerusalem.
You will also walk through the Armenian Quarter, the Jewish Quarter and
Cardo the main Roman-Byzantine period street in the city.
Day 10 Saturday 17 June, 2023 Haifa, Israel
This morning we will arrive in Haifa. We will travel by coach to Nazareth where
we will take a walking tour around the old city. The old city and surrounds has
some impressive architecture and of course significant historical Christian
sites such as the Church of the Annunciation. The tour will include some time
to explore the traditional souk (the market). We continue on to the Sea of
Galilee and the town of Tiberius. We will then head back to Haifa and visit the
beautiful Hanging Gardens of Haifa, a Bahá’í Holy Place and UNESCO World
Heritage Site. These spectacular terraced gardens surround the Shrine of Bab
and provide spectacular views of Haifa and the Mediterranean Sea.
Day 11 Sunday 18 June, 2023 Limassol, Cyprus
The ancient port of Limassol is the second largest city in Cyprus. During its
long history it has come under the rule of the Anglo-Normans, the Venetians,
Ottoman Empire and the British. We visit the Kolossi Castle where Richard
the Lionheart was married during the Crusades. We then see the fascinating
Archaeological Museum and the beautifully restored house which is the
Folk Museum.
Day 12 Monday 19 June, 2023 Rhodes, Greece
This morning we arrive at Rhodes, the largest island of the Dodecanese
archipelago and the capital of this group of Greek Islands. It is world known
for the famous Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient
World, now long gone. On our tour see ancient temples and visit the very
well-preserved Grand Masters residence, built by the Knights of Saint John.
We will tour the well preserved old town and have time to shop before we
return to the ship.
Day 13 Tuesday 20 June, 2023 Chania, Crete
Today we arrive in Chania, Crete. On our sightseeing tour today we will
travel inland through the Old Town to visit and explore the Minoan Palace
of Knossos, legendary home of the Minotaur. We will walk through the ruins
and excavations of the island’s vast ancient palace and learn about the Greek
mythological tales that are linked to it. We then return to the ship.
Day 14 Wednesday 21 June, 2023 Argostoli, Greece
This morning we drive up the slopes of Mount Ainos to the Cave of Drogarati.
We will pass the famous bridge of Drapanos with its obelisk and see the
traditional village of Fragata with its vineyards. The Cave of Drogarati is one
of the most impressive on the island, lying 180 feet below the surface and
dating more than 2 million years old. We will descend a steep passage into
the cave which leads to a natural balcony overlooking a platform which is
often used as a venue for concerts. We then visit the Old Monastery of Saint
Gerasimos where the mummified body of the Saint Protector of the island
is kept. We travel to the the beautiful underground cave lake of Melissani.
We board small wooden boats for the short trip around the lake and the
surrounding caves. We then continue to the coastal summer resort of Sami
on the northeastern shores of of the island. Here, you have some free time to
relax in one of the traditional coffee shops and enjoy a walk around the old
port for some souvenir shopping.
Day 15 Thursday 22 June, 2023 Day At sea
A final day at sea to enjoy the facilities of the ship.
Day 16 Friday 23 June, 2023 Venice/Departure
We bid farewell to the MS Oosterdam. This morning we are transferred to
the airport for our flights back to Australia.
Day 17 Saturday 24 June, 2023 Arrival Australia
We arrive in Australia and tour activities conclude.
| Cabin | Description | Deck | Twin Fare | Single Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L | Inside | 4, 5, 6, 7 | $9,999 | $12,995 |
| K | Inside | 1, 6 | $10,085 | $13,125 |
| J | Inside | 1 | $10,115 | $13,200 |
| I | Inside | 6, 7 | $10,150 | $13,275 |
| G | Outside Obstructured | 5, 8 | $10,440 | $13,595 |
| F | Outside | 1 | $10,495 | $13,690 |
| E | Outside | 1 | $10,550 | $13,785 |
| DD | Outside | 1 | $10,600 | $13,885 |
| D | Outside | 1, 4 | $10,659 | $13,980 |
| C | Outside | 1 | $10,715 | $14,075 |
| VD | Balcony | 6, 7 | $11,200 | $15,695 |
| VC | Balcony | 4, 5, 6, 8 | $11,265 | $15,800 |
| VB | Balcony | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 | $11,315 | $15,900 |
| VA | Balcony | 5, 8 | $11,375 | $16,000 |
| SY | Suite | 5, 8 | $13,075 | $19,250 |
| SS | Suite | 6 | $13,225 | $19,500 |
| SC | Suite | 6, 7 | $14,940 | $22,800 |
| Included port & handling charges | $1,118 | $1,338 | ||
| Included air taxes | $225 | $225 | ||
| Included cruise gratuities | $222 | $222 | ||
All cabins are subject to availability. Please call for fares and information on other cabin categories. There are fare reductions available for the 3rd and 4th persons sharing in some twin cabins. Please call for details on 1800 630 343.
You can stay on in the Europe at minimal additional airfare. Business Class upgrades are available. Please contact Travelrite on 1800 630 343 for more information.
International touring can involve a considerable amount of walking and stair climbing in the places visited and it is important that all tour participants have a level of physical fitness that allows them to take part in this activity without the need of assistance from others.
TOUR OPERATOR:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd (ABN 64 005 817 078) is
the tour organiser. MS Oosterdam is operated by Holland America Line and the
fly cruise arrangements are subject to the terms and conditions and general
information detailed on the Holland America website www.hollandamerica.com.
All passengers must complete and sign a Travelrite International booking form and
complete the cruise personaliser on the Holland America website.
DEPOSIT AND PAYMENT:
A deposit of $900 per passenger should be sent with
a completed Travelrite International booking form that lists your requested cabin
category. As soon as the booking is confirmed (usually within 24 hours) a cruise
confirmation advice will be posted to the client. Final payments are due to be
paid to Travelrite International 90 days prior to the commencement of the fly/
cruise. A 1.5% administration fee will be added to all payments made by credit
card. If fares and air taxes change due to government and airport regulations
and currency fluctuations Travelrite International reserves the right to charge
additional amounts.
Cancellation Charges:Number of days before departure.
| Days prior to Departure | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|
| Over 90 days | $900 |
| 90 - 61 days | 25% of full fare |
| 60 - 46 days | 75% of full fare |
| 45 days or less | 100% of full fare |
| Non appearance/no written notice | 100% of full fare |
REFUNDS:
The tour is based on arrangements that do not allow for any refunds in
respect to sightseeing, accommodation, meals, airfare or other services not utilised
after the tour has commenced.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS:
All passengers will require a valid passport. If you are
not an Australian passport holder check with Travelrite International for visa
requirements.
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
Adequate travel insurance is highly recommended to cover
cruise members for the consequences of unforeseen events during the cruise and for
cancellation fees which could result from events such as illness, accident, death etc.
BAGGAGE:
Passengers qualify for a 30kg free baggage allowance on flights to join
or return from the cruise.
MINIMUM TOUR NUMBERS:
The fly/cruise arrangements have been made on the
basis of a minimum number of passengers travelling. In the event that less than
the required number of passengers have confirmed their booking 90 days from
the date of departure, Travelrite International reserve the right to cancel the tour,
giving a full refund of monies paid, or offer arrangements to proceed with the tour
at a modified fare.
TOUR PARTICIPATION:
Children under 5 years of age are ineligible on coach & cruise tours. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Passengers with disabilities are welcome on Travelrite & Cruise Offers tours provided they are accompanied by a companion capable of providing all necessary assistance, and do not require special assistance from Travelrite & Cruise Offers personnel. Travelrite and Cruise Offers reserves the right to refuse to carry anyone if it is felt the individual cannot cope with the requirements of coach & cruise tour travel and who may require services and facilities that Travelrite & Cruise Offers cannot guarantee will be available. You agree to not hold the Travelrite & Cruise Offers responsible for any decision made by any of them or any service provider to refuse to carry you, provide any facilities or accommodation to you or to provide any service to you.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd is the tour organiser. Travelrite
International Pty Ltd, its agents, officers, affiliates, and/or suppliers of services
pursuant to or in connection with this fly/cruise shall act only as agents in
making arrangements for hotels, transportation, including transportation by ship,
restaurants, or any other service and do not assume any liability whatsoever for
any injury, damage, death, loss, accident or delay to person or property due to an
act of negligence or a default of any hotel, carrier restaurant company or person
rendering any services included in fly/cruises, acts of terrorism, acts of God, acts
of Government or any other authorities. Further, no responsibilities are accepted
for any damage or delay due to sickness, pilferage, labour disputes, machinery
breakdown, quarantine, government restraints, weather or other causes beyond
their control. No responsibility is accepted for any additional expense, omission,
delays, re-routing or acts of any government authority. Baggage is at owners risk
throughout the fly/cruise. The passage contract between the carriers concerned
when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the
purchasers of this fly/cruise and/or the passengers. The right is reserved to
withdraw any fly/cruise and/or make such changes in the fly/cruise as may be
found desirable or necessary for the convenience of the parties and the proper
carrying out of the fly/ cruise. This contract shall be construed in accordance of the
laws of the State of Victoria, Australia and any legal action must be undertaken in
the State of Victoria. Attention is also directed to the terms and conditions of the
fly/cruise passage contract with Holland America Line, detailed on the back of the
reservation form. If you do not have a copy of this form please contact us and we
will send one to you.
DELAYS AND UNFORESEEN EVENTS:
You engage Travelrite International to book
this tour on your behalf and you acknowledge that Travelrite International acts
as your agent for the purpose of making contracts between you and the various
providers of accommodation, transportation and other services that comprise the
tour. Travelrite International may without reference to you provide or make available to you, or may as your agent engage any third party to provide or make available
to you, any good or service which Travelrite International reasonably believes is
necessary for your benefit to maintain the tour itinerary, repatriate you or otherwise
accommodate, transport or sustain you in circumstances in which the tour itinerary
fails wholly or partly for any reason. You appoint Travelrite International your
attorney for this purpose. You agree to pay Travelrite International any cost thereof
and you indemnify Travelrite International in respect of any cost it incurs in this
regard. Travelrite advises you to obtain travel insurance generally including in
respect of the risk that any such good or service may become required.
TRAVEL VACCINATION POLICY::
The wellbeing of our guests is our top priority. All
guests booked to travel internationally with Travelrite International are required to
be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, which may include a booster shot to keep it
current and valid.
HOW TO BOOK:
Bookings can be made by completing a booking form and sending
it with a deposit of $900 per person to:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd
423 Whitehorse Road
Balwyn, Victoria 3103
Further information can be obtained by telephoning
Toll Free: 1800 630 343
Phone: (03) 8803 6868
Email: balwyn@travelrite.com.au
www.travelrite.com.au
ABOUT TRAVELRITE INTERNATIONAL:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd (A.B.N.64
005 817 078) is a well-established travel company which has been operating in the
eastern suburbs of Melbourne for more than 40 years. It is fully ATAS accredited:
A10538 and IATA accredited. As such, it directly represents the major airlines of
the world and all major domestic and international tour and transport operators.
Travelrite International has been operating special interest tours for 30 years, and
now runs over 90 tours a year. Travelrite International Pty Ltd is a full member of the
Australian Federation of Travel Agents – AFTA.
“Had a great time. Well organised. Ship crew were fantastic. Tour Manager did a great job. Guides were good, and we had a very friendly group.”
“Tour Host was very personable, great lectures. Top class guides made all the difference.”
