nova cruises tours

Nova Scotia Canada Cruises & Tours

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• Canada: From Sea to Sea

Canada Travel Guide

• All Canada Trips
• Great Lakes
• Northwest Passage
• Atlantic Coast
• Niagara Falls
• Saint Lawrence River
• Quebec City
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• Canadian Maritimes

Favorite Canada All Trips

• Torngat Mountains Safari
• Chilko Experience Wilderness Lodge
• Narwhal & Polar Bear Safari
• High Arctic Muskoxen & Polar Bear Photography
• Arctic Char Fly Fishing
• Beluga Whale Photography
• Arctic Watch Discovery Experience

Top Nova Scotia Travel Destinations

Nova scotia trips by departure date.

• 2024 Nova Scotia trips (6)
• 2025 Nova Scotia trips (5)

Nova Scotia Trips by Activity

• Nova Scotia wildlife viewing (6)
• Nova Scotia small ship cruises (4)
• Nova Scotia village visits (4)
• Nova Scotia whale watching (3)

Why Travel With Adventure Life

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Cruise Newcastle and the Hunter with NOVA Cruises

Phone: 02 4088 8800 e-mail: [email protected].

Newcastle Whale Watch Cruise

Departs Saturday & Sunday @ 9am, 12noon (& 3pm on demand) June-late Oct (2.5hrs) Departs Wednesdays @ 10am (every day during School Holidays and Public Holidays) Boarding at Harbour Square Boat Dock, No 3 Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle (Eastern side of former maritime museum/HOPE wine bar)

Adults $75 - Concession $70 - Child (up to 17yrs) $40 - Family (2Ad 2Ch up to 17yrs) $199

Now in our 16th year from Newcastle... join the experienced crew on board NOVA Cruises for an unforgettable 2.5 hour ocean voyage and experience the amazing migration of over 35,000 Humpback whales.

Chance to see huge pods of playful oceanic dolphins, sea birds, seals and much more.... Free return stand-by cruise if no whales sighted *Terms and Conditions apply Informative commentary & free Fact Sheets Complimentary morning or afternoon tea Licensed bar and snack food available Enclosed & Outdoor areas Air Conditioning & Heated comfort On-board toilet facilities and restrooms Free natural Travacalm tablets Experienced and knowledgeable staff INCLUDES BONUS HARBOUR AND OUTER BEACH CRUISE

#This is an ocean-going cruise. Occasionally cruises will be canceled due to unsafe conditions offshore. Conditions can vary greatly and as everyone's tolerance to motion sickness is different we strongly recommend taking a motion sickness preventative prior to traveling. Please check the conditions before you travel if concerned about the state of the sea and swell.

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NOVA Cruises

Postal address: 7 Wyalong Place, Salamander Bay, NSW 2317 Phone: 02 4088 8800 E-Mail: [email protected]

1-800-565-7173

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Atlantic Maritimes

Atlantic Maritimes (13 days)

The world's highest tides, fresh salt air, sandy beaches, rocky coves, cosmopolitan cities, remote lighthouses, rich history, warm hospitality, rustic fishing villages, succulent seafood, unspoiled nature, varied activities, first-rate facilities and travel routes.  All of these things and more make Canada's Maritime Provinces one of the world's most popular destinations.  Experience the best of the Maritimes on this delightful tour of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

12 Nights' accommodation including 4 two-night stays 21 Meals including 2 lobster dinners Atlantic Canadian Tour Director or Driver Guide Meet and Greet Event Lobster Dinner Cruise on Shediac Bay Annapolis Valley Winery Tour & Tasting Peggy's Cove Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island World Famous Cabot Trail Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site Whale Watching Boat Tour (weather permitting)

DAY 1: Arrive Halifax, NS Arrive in  Halifax  and check in to your accommodations which are ideally located in the downtown core of this vibrant and cosmopolitan urban centre on the  Atlantic Ocean . Meet your Tour Director or Driver/Guide and fellow travelers this evening at a  Meet & Greet. Option: You may wish to add additional nights in Halifax to your vacation package.  Bursting with culture and rich history, Nova Scotia's capital city has much to offer. 

DAY 2: Halifax to Moncton, NB Explore the  Bay of Fundy  and learn about the world's highest tides as you meander its colourful coastline to  New Brunswick.   En route, explore the  Joggins Fossil Cliffs , a  UNESCO World Heritage Site , where you will see magnificently exposed layers of rock revealing the world's most complete fossil record of life in the "Coal Age" of 300 million years ago.  After crossing into  New Brunswick , an unforgettable culinary experience awaits as you enjoy a scrumptious lobster dinner on a lobster boat.*  Continue on to  Moncton  and check into your downtown hotel for the night. (Continental Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) *This component is not available on the October 12, 2021 departure; the lobster dinner will be enjoyed at a restaurant in Moncton.

DAY 3: Moncton to Saint John, NB Experience a true natural wonder this morning at the  Hopewell Rocks  on the coast of the  Bay of Fundy . Marvel at these massive flower-pot shaped formations sculpted by the highest tides on the planet.  Travel through  Fundy National Park  on to Canada's first incorporated city,  Saint John,  on the southern New Brunswick coast.    Enjoy   a  city tour,  including the  Reversing Falls  where twice daily the  Bay of Fundy  tides force the  Saint John River  to reverse its flow.  Check into your  Saint John  accommodations for a two-night stay.  (Breakfast, Lunch)

DAY 4: St. Andrews by-the-Sea Day Trip Enjoy a day trip to picturesque  St. Andrews by-the-Sea  where the quaint charm of this coastal town is sure to captivate.   After a  Whale Watching Boat Tour  (weather permitting), the afternoon is yours to experience the friendly people, beautiful architecture, and rich marine life of this seaside gem at your own pace. (Breakfast, Lunch)

DAY 5: Saint John to Digby, NS Ferry back to Nova Scotia this morning and arrive in  Digby,  the scallop capital of the world,   where the fresh sea air and passionate Acadian culture combine to form an enchanting and historically rich town.  Check into the  Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa  overlooking the  Annapolis Basin  on the  Bay of Fundy. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 6: Digby to Halifax, NS Travel the lush Annapolis Valley where the French Acadians of Grand Pre made their first settlement in the early 1600's. Learn about this landscape's designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as fact and fiction blend to reveal the romance of the Land of Evangeline . Visit a local winery for a tour and tasting before returning to Halifax for a two-night stay. (Breakfast)

DAY 7: South Shore Touring Discover the rustic charm of the renowned fishing village of Peggy's Cove where you will enjoy breakfast overlooking one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. Travel the South Shore and on to the UNESCO World Heritage Town of Lunenburg, renowned for her fleets of Grand Banks' fishing schooners.  Take a walking tour to fully experience one of the most remarkably preserved colonial settlements in the New World, and visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic to learn about the town's famous seafaring heritage. (Breakfast)

DAY 8: Halifax to Charlottetown, PE Learn about the Mi'kmaq people at  Millbrook Cultural & Heritage Centre  before crossing  Confederation Bridge , the world's longest continuous multi-span bridge, to  Prince Edward Island.     Check into your  Charlottetown  accommodations   for a two-night stay and enjoy a theatre performance by local entertainers at the  Confederation Centre of the Arts  (a substitution may be necessary due to the theatre schedule). (Continental Breakfast)

DAY 9: Prince Edward Island Touring Enjoy a  free morning  in Charlottetown, Canada's birthplace, or join a complimentary  walking tour  of the city.  This afternoon, tour the scenic  North Shore  of the island.  Drive by red cliffs, white beaches, gently sloping sand dunes and green fields of  Prince Edward Island National Park  and visit  Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place , the alluring inspiration of Lucy Maud Montgomery's classic books.  Experience true Maritime hospitality this evening at a traditional hall-style  lobster supper . (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 10: Charlottetown to Baddeck, NS Ferry over the  Northumberland Strait  back to  Nova Scotia  and proceed to  Cape Breton Island ,   the Scotland of North America, via the  Canso Causeway .  Visit  Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site  in  Baddeck  to learn of the many accomplishments of this genius who made his home on the island before checking into your accommodations on the  Bras d'Or Lake  where you will spend the next two nights. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 11: Cabot Trail Touring Experience one of the most stunningly picturesque drives in North America today as you tour the  Cabot Trail  which winds around the rocky splendor of Cape Breton's northern shore, ascending to the incredible plateaus of  Cape Breton Highlands National Park .  Look-offs offer unforgettable vistas of Cape Breton's rugged coastline so be sure to have your camera on hand .   (Breakfast, Boxed Lunch, Dinner)

DAY 12: Baddeck to Halifax, NS The Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site  awaits today. This reconstruction of the original French town and fortifications, depicting one-fifth of the settlement of 1744 New France, is the largest of its kind in North America. Your tour continues along the shore of the Bras d'Or Lake to the mainland, and back to Halifax for one last night in the Maritimes. (Breakfast)

O ption: You may wish to continue your Atlantic Canada vacation and join us today on our Circle Newfoundland & Labrador tour.

DAY 13: Depart Halifax Atlantic Tours' arrangements end on check out from the hotel.  We hope that you have enjoyed your time with us and that we'll see you again soon! (Continental Breakfast)

Accommodations

Mobility requirements.

Travelling with Atlantic Tours requires a certain level of activity and physical fitness to enjoy and take part in the tour.

While the specific requirements for each tour vary, in general, you MUST be able to:

· Enter and exit the motorcoach on your own.

· Enter and exit tour boats on your own.

· Climb stairs with ease.

· Walk up and down moderate to steep inclines.

· Walk on uneven surfaces.

· Walk distances of at least 100 feet at a reasonable pace.

· During walking tours, walk and stand for up to 2 hours.

· Manage your own luggage if luggage handling is not available.

Rates (CAD)

Regular Group Departures - up to 48 passengers

Per person Rates in CAD Rates are subject to 15% HST

Small Group Departures - up to 26 passengers 

Per person Rates in CAD  Rates are subject to 15% HST

Rates (USD)

Per person Rates in USD  Rates are subject to 15% HST/GST

Testimonials

The tour well exceeded my expectations from start to finish!  Tour guide and driver were excellent.  There is nothing, in my opinion that could have been done better.   B. Zehnder

You get your money's worth on this tour; Atlantic Tours did not minimize on any of the activities or meals.  Our tour guide and driver were absolutely wonderful ' it felt like a large family group by end of tour.  S. Wetherall

A very informative and beautiful journey of the Maritimes.  J. Robertson

Loved the whole trip ' start to finish!!  A Miller-Cheyne

Everything about this journey was absolutely awesome!  R. VanMackelberg

Add to your Vacation

Pre or post tour hotels.

Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax Holiday Inn Express Halifax Airport Hotel ALT Halifax Airport Hotel

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Airport Express Shuttle Bus - Halifax Private Town Car - Halifax

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Medical Coverage Cancellation Coverage Please call or click here for quotes or information

SIGHTSEEING & DAY TRIPS

Halifax Sightseeing Tours Peggy’s Cove Tour Lunenburg and Mahone Bay Tall Ship Silva Nova Scotia Dinner Cruise

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site Maritime Museum of the Atlantic Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

TRANSPORTATION

We can book your flights or rail transportation to and from your tour’s starting and end point. Ask us about rental car bookings for self-drive tours!

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Our trained and experienced agents are here to help!

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Having peace of mind while travelling is the number one way to ensure your trip will be memorable!

Nova Cruises

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Nova Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Nova Scotia & Prince Edward Island

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• Small Group

Year, Departure Type

Select small group departures (averaging 24 Tauck guests) or classic departures as well as the year you would like to travel.

• 2024 Classic
• 2024 Small Group
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• 2025 Small Group

Accommodations

• Pricing & Availability
• Important Info

Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Private dinner and tour at the Citadel National Historic Site in Halifax

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Private Tauck reception & dinner at Pier 21, introducing the history of Canadian immigration

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Choice of guided visits to historic Lunenburg or to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic

Travel by ferry to Prince Edward Island & across the Confederation Bridge to New Brunswick

A visit to explore the stunning coastline of Prince Edward Island National Park

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

The World Next Door

A legacy of seafaring gems… think seaside shanties, picturesque fishing hamlets, colorful 19th-century timber homes, and wildlife-rich waters. Private evenings in historic Halifax include the Citadel, and moving stories of Canadian immigrants at Pier 21, two nights on Prince Edward Island, immortalized in novels, and whale watching promise lasting maritime memories.

Private tour and dinner at halifax citadel national historic site, private tour and dinner in halifax.

Enjoy a private tour and dinner at the star-shaped Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, commemorating Halifax's role as a key naval station in the British Empire and 300 years of tradition; the location was strategically chosen due to its panoramic view of Halifax Harbour.

Tauck Exclusive – private reception and dinner at Pier 21

Private welcome reception and dinner, pier 21.

Canada's immigration story is told at Pier 21, home to the Canadian Museum of Immigration and special exhibitions; discover the amazing stories of Canada's rich immigration history at our private welcome reception and dinner.

The Prince George Hotel, Halifax

Days 1, 2 and 3

The Prince George Hotel – three nights of excellence in the heart of Halifax

Nova Scotia's capital city of Halifax is quickly emerging as one of Canada's centers for creativity and innovation, particularly as a tech hub; the city's strong economic growth, coupled with small town ideals, make it a superb spot for three nights. And 4-Diamond The Prince George Hotel puts you right in the heart of downtown.

A great trip with great travelers; New friendships were made, our Tauck Director was outstanding and her knowledge made this trip very worthwhile.

Tauck Traveler Review

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All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

Tour Planner

Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs.

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Overnight Accommodations

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The prince george hotel.

Halifax, Canada

Delta Hotels Prince Edward

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa

Digby, Nova Scotia, Canada

Your Journey

Pricing & Availability

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

Prince Edward Island & Nova Scotia begins and ends in Halifax, Canada.

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey to enter Canada. Click here for more information on the U.S. Department of Customs and Border Patrol website.

If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not require a visa for the short duration of this tour. Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation. If you are a frequent traveler to Canada from the U.S., you may benefit from the NEXUS program which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at the airport, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet site by clicking here .

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact a consulate or embassy of Canada to determine what travel documentation is required.

Anyone with a criminal record (including some misdemeanors such as Driving While Impaired (DWI) charges) may be excluded or removed from Canada, and should contact a Canadian embassy or consulate well in advance of any planned travel to ensure proper travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposit & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $350 per person

Final Payment:

Final Payment is due to Tauck 60 days before departure for lands trips, and 120 days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement for up to $5,000 to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $349  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPDOM .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $350 per person

59-8 days before departure = $600 per person

7-1 days before departure = $900 per person

Time of cancellation  will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control,  Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Fee Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

Luggage Handling and Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage – General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and only those items you need handy during the day such as purses, make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or in the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may not be accessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety & Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

Smoking is not permitted on the motor coaches. Digby Pines is a non-smoking resort. Local legislation in Canada varies greatly with respect to smoking. Generally, all the provinces visited – Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island – ban smoking in public places. Hotel guest rooms are generally exempt from these regulations.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

The Prince Edward Island & Nova Scotia journey is moderately-paced for the enjoyment of all guests. You should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances over uneven terrain, as some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Canada. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The CDC operates a 24-hour information number at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally, please contact an embassy or consulate of each of the countries on the itinerary to determine what vaccinations may be required for you to visit.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The weather in Nova Scotia is tempered by the ocean and in Prince Edward Island by the warm waters of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Summers tend to be warm, with very low humidity. From June through early September, average high temperatures range from 65 to 75˚F (18 to 24˚C); average low temperatures range from 45 to 55˚F (7 to 13˚C). Rainfall is spread evenly throughout the year at a moderate 4 in (102 mm) per month.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website by clicking here .

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. For the welcome and farewell receptions, casual resort wear is appropriate; formal wear is never required.

Most of our hotels offer valet laundry service for a fee. Please inquire at time of booking.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription (or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you), a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Eastern Canada:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater, jacket or windbreaker for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/ cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Looking to set sail? Our amazing cruise offers take you from the Caribbean to the rivers of Europe, from the Amazon to the Pacific Ocean, the Mediterranean and more! From the world’s largest ships to small an intimate vessels, we’ll  always offer the best prices plus exclusive Nova Travel benefits. Check out these specials or contact us to find the perfect cruise.

TOP CRUISE DEALS 

Croisi Europe Cruises: Holland And The Romantic Rhine Valley

From Amsterdam to Strasbourg, we’ll sail along the Rhine. Enjoy a perfectly combined cruise between nature and culture.

Prices From $1430 Per Person (double occupancy)

Cruise The Adriatic

Explore the Danube journey through the very heart of Europe. Medieval towns, stunning vistas, scenic old country villages, medieval fortresses and gourmet meals, this 8 day journey is one you are sure to love.

Prices From $1,300 Per Person (double ocupancy)

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Silver Nova

Introducing Silver Nova - our newest vessel that joined us in summer 2023, and is a home away from home for up to 728 guests. Silver Nova’s innovative asymmetrical design introduces the world like never before, offering an immersive destination experience to our guests. With a gross tonnage of 54,700 tons, she offers a space-to-guest ratio of 75 GRT-per-passenger becoming one of the most spacious cruise ships ever built. What’s more, Silver Nova is our most environmentally friendly, and thanks to her groundbreaking technological solutions, she propels Silversea into a new era of sustainable cruising. It’s the Nova way to travel.

THIS IS SILVERSEA, THE NOVA WAY

Optimising a new vision of luxury, Silver Nova revolutionises 21st-century travel. Our latest flagship leads our fleet into sustainable cruising, respecting the fragile ecosystems of the remote and remarkable destinations we visit. The ship’s pioneering architecture offers a brand new suite experience, including aft suites that deliver stunning 270˚ views. Onboard the Silversea hallmarks are taken to the next level: butler service for every suite, exceptionally high crew-to-guest ratio (1:1.3), and outstanding gastronomy. Welcome to the Nova way of travelling.

Silver Nova preserves all our trademarks and delivers a new way of luxury cruising. Her revolutionary horizontal design ensures outstanding public areas, which fuse seamlessly together. Silver Nova introduces a brand new selection of superb, spacious suites, many of which promise a 270˚ view from sea to sky. Nine dining venues and an unprecedented choice of bars complete the experience, offering delicious drinking and dining at any time of the day.

• Guests capacity : 728
• Crew capacity : 544
• Built : 2023
• Tonnage : 54,700 Tons

Otium Suite

The Otium Suite is one of our newest and finest suites. The crowning glory must surely be its unprecedented 270 degree view, giving you some of the best views of your destination possible.

Owner's Suite

The eponymous Owner’s Suite is a Venetian Society favourite. So, why not travel in this stylish suite and get a taste of the ultimate in luxury lifestyle.

Grand Suite

If you have ever wanted to indulge in one of our epitomes of ultra-luxury cruising, then the Grand Suite is perhaps the answer.

Master Suite

This new suite category is exclusive to Silver Nova. The Master Suite is stately, commanding and majestic and perfect for relaxing after a days’ exploring on shore.

Signature Suite

Another exclusivity for Silver Nova. The Signature Suite is one of our most distinctive new suites, offering unparalleled destination immersion through unobstructed views from all interior areas.

Silver Suite

The Silver Suite is a Silversea favourite. It’s one of the Venetian Society’s favourite choices, and we can see why!

Junior Grand Suite

Silver Nova’s Junior Grand Suite is a comfortably sized home away from home.

Premium Medallion Suite

With features similar to our best-selling Medallion Suite, the Premium Medallion has an optimal placement at the aft.

Medallion Suite

The Medallion Suite boasts a sumptuous and spacious living area, complete with rich textures and panoramic views from your large private veranda.

Premium Veranda Suite

The Veranda Suite offers elegant décor, a stunning marbled bathroom with a luxurious double vanity and sumptuous walk-in shower or large bathtub.

Deluxe Veranda Suite

Whether you are preparing for a dynamic day on shore, primping for a romantic dinner on board, or settling down for a quiet evening in-suite, you will be enveloped by the Deluxe Veranda Suite’s warm touches.

Superior Veranda Suite

Well situated at the front and back of the ship, the 28 m2 interior of the Veranda Suite is only the beginning.

Classic Veranda Suite

Located at the bow and aft of the ship, the Classic Veranda Suite will offer travellers a taste of our famous on board luxury.

S.A.L.T. Chef's Table

Prepare for an intimate and interactive dining experience like no other at the S.A.L.T. Chef's Table. Indulge in a choreographed menu of small plates highlighting regional flavours and star ingredients, all accompanied by unique wines and cocktails.

S.A.L.T. Kitchen

Enjoy destination-inspired menus, including the Terrain menu, which offers recipes and flavours specific to the port visited, and the Voyage menu, which draws inspiration from the best flavours of the voyage.

Atlantide offers guests our quintessential dining experience. Combining contemporary elegance and hallmark Silversea service, this classic restaurant offers our signature fine dining.

La Terrazza

La Terrazza aboard Silver Nova offers an unparalleled destination dining experience, from its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows to its large, outdoor terrace.

Indulge in new epitome of French fine dining aboard Silver Nova, where culinary heritage meets modern innovation.

Experience the harmony of flavours and aesthetics with our enhanced Kaiseki dining experience. Delight in the fusion of Washoku’s culinary heritage and health benefits, where each meticulously crafted dish is a work of art.

Silver Note

Where do you go if you want great food and a brilliant atmosphere in a relaxed and sophisticated setting? Silver Note of course!

The Marquee

The Marquee is our brand new outdoor dining venue, open from early morning until late evening.

Silversea’s much-loved casual dining restaurants serves a delectable range of burgers and salads by day, and turns into our famous Hot Rocks table BBQ concept by night.

Spaccanapoli

Nothing says Italy quite as well as a hot, fresh pizza. Spaccanapoli is a slice of Naples, where you’ll taste deliciously thin, freshly made pizzas, topped with creamy mozzarella and minimalist toppings.

The Pool Deck

Enjoy a reimagined space where you can relax, refresh and rejuvenate on decks 10 and 11. Ample sunbeds for everyone, more space than ever before and the largest pool in the fleet.

The Dusk Bar

With an emphasis on the destination, panoramic views connects you with the world beyond on The Dusk Bar. This superb open-air sky bar provides plenty of space for guests to enjoy a pre or post dinner drink.

The Arts Café offers a cultural setting for eating, drinking and socialising, as well as a chance to lose yourself while reading up on all your favourite artists and art.

S.A.L.T. Bar

Nothing says travelling deeper better than Silver Nova’s S.A.L.T. bar. Get a taste for the authentic and settle down to enjoy locally-inspired cocktails and drinks.

S.A.L.T. Lab

Welcome to the S.A.L.T. Lab, an interactive space where guests can deep-dive into local culinary techniques through workshops, lectures and cooking demonstrations.

The Shelter

Strategically located on deck three, The Shelter is our newest pre and post dinner cocktail venue.

Dolce Vita is the gathering place for our savvy travellers of the world, a place where guests mingle and exchange stories and where new faces become lifelong friends.

Panorama Lounge

A peaceful retreat that is the perfect place to break away to, a social place to meet and greet old friends, or an evening venue to partake in a cocktail as you sit back and watch the world go by.

Connoisseur’s Corner

Rich and luxurious, yet airy and spacious, this indoor/outdoor venue is where you sip the finest cognac or whisky from a prestigious range and revel in the tranquil murmur of after-dinner conversation.

Observation Lounge

The Observation Library boasts exceptional views overlooking the ocean as it stretches out below you while you enjoy your cruise.

The Venetian Lounge

Welcome to Venetian Lounge, a place where the arts of theatre and music meet with full-scale productions and feature films.

Located on deck 4, the Atrium is the beating heart of Silver Nova.

There is a wealth of luxury shopping experiences aboard all Silversea ships, featuring the most distinctive and appealing brands from across the globe.

Finding relaxation is one the of the principle aims of taking a cruise, so why not join us in the Otium Beauty Spa for guaranteed indulgence?

Enjoy a selection of games at the Silversea Casino for guests 18 and older, or discover new games during your luxury cruise.

Fitness Centre

The Fitness Centre brings together elite design with programs that are specifically created for your body type and needs.

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Canadian Maritimes

Select Year

Select Group Size

• Small Group

Year, Departure Type

Select small group departures (averaging 24 Tauck guests), or classic departures, and the year you would like to travel.

• 2024 Classic
• 2024 Small Group
• 2025 Classic
• 2025 Small Group

Accommodations

• Pricing & Availability
• Important Info

Uniquely Tauck

Experience With Tauck

Sturgeon caviar tasting at Carter's Point Hatchery

Private reception and dinner in Halifax at the Citadel, its treasured 19th-century fortress

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Witness a way of life unchanged for centuries on Prince Edward Island when you learn about Acadian culture and lobsters aboard a cruise on Shediac Bay

Visit to the Gaelic College of Celtic Arts and Crafts on Cape Breton Island to learn about Nova Scotia's Scottish Gaelic culture and watch a demonstration in the art of kilt making

Visit to Millbrook Cultural & Heritage Centre to learn about the Mi'kmaq and their artistic traditions

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

The World Next Door

Time stands still in the Canadian Maritimes... preserving a way of life that honors the land and sea – and a cultural mix of early French, Irish, Scottish and English influences.

An exclusive video tour of acadian sturgeon and caviar.

Presented by owner Cornel Ceapa

Private tour and dinner at Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Private tour and dinner in halifax.

Enjoy a private tour and dinner at the star-shaped Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, commemorating Halifax's role as a key naval station in the British Empire and 300 years of tradition; the location was strategically chosen due to its panoramic view of Halifax Harbour.

Prince Edward Island

Days 5 and 6

Beyond "Anne of Green Gables"...

At Prince Edward Island National Park, explore the unique and fragile ecosystem of parabolic dunes, beaches, wetlands and salt marshes, a habitat for over 300 species of birds including the endangered Piping Plover; sample local Atlantic Ocean fare – lobster – at a family-run restaurant; and yes, visit Green Gables Heritage Place for a complete look at "Anne of Green Gables" world.

Dinner at Delta Beauséjour

That extra flourish that makes a meal at windjammer so special....

An unforgettable dining experience awaits at Windjammer, the perennial CAA Four Diamond Award winner at Delta Beauséjour. Windjammers sailed their passengers and cargo to exotic ports throughout the world in the mid-1800s; more than two dozen were built in Moncton, on the shores of the Peticodiac River. Throughout the growing season, Executive Chef Stefan Müller showcases the freshest and finest products from within a 100-mile radius of Greater Moncton. From cheese to lamb, from seafood to fruits and vegetables, the 100 Mile Menu celebrates the very best that the farmers, ranchers and fishers from the area have to offer.

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Take The Details With You

Download day-by-day details.

All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

Tour Planner

Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs.

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Overnight Accommodations

Extend your stay

Arrive Early

The prince george hotel.

Halifax, Canada

Delta Hotels Saint John

Saint John, NB E2L 4W3, Canada

Delta Hotels Beauséjour

Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada

Delta Hotels Prince Edward

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada

The Corson House at Keltic Lodge

Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia

Liscombe Lodge Resort & Conference Centre

Liscomb Mills, Nova Scotia, Canada

Your Journey

Pricing & Availability

Pricing & Dates are not available yet. Please check back soon.

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About Booking This Tour

Covid Travel Requirements

The below provides an overview of Tauck's requirements and those of the countries we visit, along with our supplier partners who have implemented their own Covid policies that may go beyond Tauck's requirements. The trip-specific guidelines are for U.S. travelers.

Up-to-date destination entry requirements will be posted 60 days prior to the first seasonal departure for each tour or cruise series. For journeys not yet posted below, please visit our Travel Requirements page. As entry requirement change frequently, please check often.

Tauck 2024 Covid Policy

For 2024 tours and cruises, Tauck has no remaining Covid requirements. There is no vaccination requirement or travel pledge to be signed. This 2024 policy could change if there is a surge in infection rates or other factors that could impact the safety of our guests and employees.

Tauck 2023 Covid Policy

• Vaccination Requirement:  All Tauck guests age 12 and older must be fully vaccinated. Additionally, you must have had at least one booster dose and/or have proof of recovery from Covid.
• Requirements for Minors:  Though highly recommended, vaccination for minors age 11 and under is not required by Tauck. However, if unvaccinated they must present a negative result from either a PCR or antigen test taken within 3 days of departing for their Tauck trip. If a child age 11 or under is vaccinated but not boosted, they must also present a negative test prior to their Tauck trip.
• Tauck Travel Agreement:  Tauck requires all guests to sign our Travel Well Pledge . Your Tauck Director will provide this document for your signature on the first day of your trip, and will check your proof of vaccination and booster/or proof of recovery. Additional information can be found at here .

To ensure the safety of your fellow travelers and the communities we visit, all guests must follow health and safety protocols when necessitated by local health guidance or our supplier partners. Your Tauck Director will keep you informed of these local requirements.

Although not required by Tauck, some countries may require a pre-travel Covid test. It is important that you carefully check the most recent entry requirements (listed below) for your tour or cruise. 

Additional Destination Requirements

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a valid passport to enter Australia, and that passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. (Please note that although adult passports are valid for a full ten years, children's passports require renewal every five years.)  If you are a United States citizen and do not have a valid passport, please contact the closest U.S. passport agency or consult the U.S. State Department web site for detailed information on how to obtain or renew your passport at: www.travel.state.gov .

REQUIRED TRAVEL DOCUMENTS - AUSTRALIA: Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K. and other countries will require both a passport and an Electronic Travel Authority, or eTA, in order to enter Australia.  The eTA is an electronic visa waiver, and it is valid for one year. 

In order to enter Australia and/or New Zealand, you must apply for each country's ETA (Electronic Travel Authority.) Information for the ETAs can be found for Australia at  www.ETA.immi.gov.au  and  www.etanewzealand.com  for New Zealand.  Please Note:  You must obtain your ETA(s) at least 60 days (but not more than 90 days) in advance of your arrival in each country.

Please Note: A separate ETA is required for both Australia and New Zealand, if your Tauck journey includes both destinations. 

ETAs to both Australia and New Zealand may be obtained with a smart phone. Please be sure to first remove your phone case and have your phone's Bluetooth connection turned on. Note: You may also use website-based forms to apply for Australian and New Zealand ETAs, but these are not recommended as the application procedure is more involved and processing times are not guaranteed.

To install the ETA app (for Australia): On your smart phone, search the Google Play Store (android) or the App Store (iPhone) for the Australian ETA app. Install the app. Once the app is installed, open it and follow the app's instructions. Using your phone, the app will scan and capture an image of your face and images from your passport, and connect with an electronic chip in your passport using NFC (Near-Field Communication) technology. Most smart phones are NFC-equipped, but if yours is not, you should be able to download an NFC reader from the Google Play or the App Store for a nominal fee. Please Note: There is a per-person fee of $17 U.S. ($20 AUD) to apply for your Australian ETA. After your application has been completed and submitted, you will receive an email confirmation of its receipt.

REQUIRED TRAVEL DOCUMENTS – NEW ZEALAND: Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K. and other countries will require both a passport and an Electronic Travel Authority, or eTA, in order in enter New Zealand.  The eTA is an electronic visa waiver, and it is valid for two years.

In New Zealand. For a list of countries and to apply — please visit www.etanewzealand.com .

To install the ETA app (for New Zealand):  On your smart phone, search the Google Play Store (android) or the App Store (iPhone) for the Australian ETA app. Install the app. Once the app is installed, open it and follow the app's instructions. Using your phone, the app will scan and capture an image of your face and images from your passport, and connect with an electronic chip in your passport using NFC (Near-Field Communication) technology. Most smart phones are NFC-equipped, but if yours is not, you should be able to download an NFC reader from the Google Play or the App Store for a nominal fee.  Please Note : There is a per-person fee of $6 U.S. ($9 NZD) to apply for your New Zealand ETA, as well as an additional per-person fee of $24 U.S. ($35 NZD) for New Zealand's International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy. 

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact an embassy or consulate of Australia to determine what travel documentation is required.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due at Tauck's Wilton, CT office  60 days before departure. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $659  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $600 per person

59-8 days before departure = $1250 per person

7-1 days before departure = $2000 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Enhanced Covid Health Protocols

Tauck Care and Global Response

Keeping our guests safe and secure has always been of paramount importance at Tauck. While we cannot predict or prevent events outside of our control, we have learned to expect the unexpected. In fact, we've planned for it and have safeguards, protocols and teams in place to deal with any eventualities. You'll travel with a comprehensive, built-in support system that starts with the care and local knowledge of our Tauck Directors and extends to our network of partners around the world, including hoteliers and transportation companies.

Our Global Response Team stands ready to respond to situations around the world. Over the past two decades, they have successfully led us through a variety of challenges around the world, from weather events, high and low water on rivers, work stoppages and more. We are well prepared for Covid. We provide assurance and comfort in knowing that help is readily available if and when it's ever needed.

Land Journeys:

Tauck has worked closely with our supplier partners around the world to deliver the comfort and safety you expect. The following are just some of the enhanced protocols we have put in place for Covid to provide you with the peace of mind you expect:

We are limiting guests numbers across all of our journeys

• Upon arrival, health questionnaires and temperature checks may be required

• Guest can expect to wear face coverings in group settings and when mandated by our suppliers and governments

•  Proper physical distancing will be implemented on motor coaches, during dining and sightseeing

•  High-touch areas in hotels and on-tour transportation, including motor coaches, will undergo enhanced cleaning

These protocols may vary by destination and will evolve over time. Please check for the latest updates at tauck.com/travel-updates

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Specific Luggage Restrictions for this Tour

Due to strictly enforced weight restrictions, checked luggage weight must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm). Luggage exceeding the allowable weight is subject to excess luggage charges which can result in a considerable additional expense. Guests are permitted to only 1 piece of checked luggage. Hand luggage may not weigh more than 15 lbs (6.8 kg), and the maximum dimensions are 20 x 15 x 10" (50.8 x 38.1 x 25.4cm) (including all wheels, handles, etc). If these dimensions are exceeded, the carry-on may be checked at the gate. Airport regulations require that passengers handle their own luggage through customs.

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally,  no vaccinations are currently required for entry into Australia; however, an International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever is required when entering Australia if you arrive from an infected area within 5 days. For complete vaccination information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. You may also log on to the CDC Internet website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally , please contact an embassy or consulate of Australia to determine what vaccinations may be required for your travel.

You should be in good health and able to walk moderate to significant distances over varied terrain. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. Pack sturdy, comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in in order to appreciate fully the challenging terrain of the beaches, rainforests and outback.

AN IMPORTANT NOTE ON SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN AND MOBILITY ISSUES: This Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate oxygen tanks, wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Oxygen tanks are strictly prohibited in many foreign countries on regional flights aboard small aircraft, such as those intra-tour flights featured on this Tauck journey.  Likewise, the very limited cargo capacity on such flights prohibits the transport of wheelchairs or motorized scooters.

Guests should also bear in mind that the infrastructure in many foreign countries, particularly in developing countries, often presents severe and even insurmountable challenges for those with walking difficulties or other mobility issues. The responsibility of the Tauck Director is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Airline Disinsection

Please check with your carrier or the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) guidance letter that requires airlines and travel agents to disclose to consumers countries that require the use of insecticides by airlines. Please click  here for more information.

Weather and Travel Gear

The seasons in Australia are opposite of those in the northern hemisphere. During the months of October through May, temperatures typically average 70-90 ºF (21-32 ºC) in Australia. During the months of June through September, temperatures average 40-60 ºF (4-16 ºC) in Australia. In Northern Australia, you will find tropical weather all year round.

To determine current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here.  

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Ship Overview

AIDAnova is the first of seven next-generation LNG-powered Helios class cruise ships ordered by Carnival Corp. for its German based brand AIDA Cruises. . This innovative system ensures a reduction in emissions and contributes to AIDA's green cruising concept, as the ship is powered by environmentally friendly liquefied natural gas.  On board AIDAnova, 2,500 staterooms can accommodate up to 5,200 passengers. Guests can choose between 20 different stateroom categories. Whether family or double cabins, new specially designed single cabins, premium, junior or penthouse suites – everyone here can find their personal temporary home away from home.

With 17 restaurants offering wide range of culinary delights and gourmet highlights guests sailing on AIDA nova can enjoy new and innovative gastronomy concepts. There are 5 specialty restaurants, 6 a la carte restaurants, 5 buffet dining areas and a snack bar. The entertainment restaurant Time Machine, combines the dinner experience with a show inviting you to travel back in time and thus combines cuisine and entertainment in an unforgettable experience. The dining experineces in the 5 specialty restaurants as well as full board with a choice of drinks in the 5 buffet restaurants are already included in the cruise price.

In addition, AIDAnova's 23 bars offer a rich selection of drinks. Starbucks fans are in good hands onboard, with over 20 different coffee and tea specialties from the world famous brand served in Café Mare. Entertainment takes center stage with parties, shows and well-known TV formats where guests can join and participate. Studio X is the first TV studio on the high seas to produce real TV shows. Guests can take part as spectators or candidates in quizzes, game or cooking shows.  

Embark on a journey and find out your perfect cruise holyday with this year’s itinerary schedules and the latest offers on board AIDAnova. In order to make most informative decision and decide when is the right time to cruise, we’ve included an additional feature that shows how crowded is each cruise destination.

Ship Specifications

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Aidanova itineraries, 7 nacht kanaren & madeira ab gran canaria, 14 nacht von gran canaria nach kiel, 14 nacht norwegen & metropolen von hamburg nach kiel, 7 nacht metropolen ab hamburg, 14 nacht norwegen & ostsee ab kiel, 7 nacht ostsee ab kiel, 7 nacht norwegen ab kiel, 7 nacht skandinavische highlights ab kiel, 14 nacht grose skandinavienreise ab kiel, aida cruises fleet.

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Cheers broke out on Holland America Line’s Koningsdam ship when the total solar eclipse began on Monday.

Off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico, passengers were perched on loungers, reclining on beach towels and lining the railings of Deck 14 with cameras on tripods at the ready. When the sliver of fiery orange that remained of the sun disappeared, a black circle ringed by white light took its place. Passengers applauded the moment they'd been awaiting since the ship departed from San Diego on Friday.

The sunny, 72-degree weather – quintessential cruise weather – gave way to chilly wind and late morning’s best impression of sunset. The horizon line glowed orange in the dusky sky.

Cruise ships can help take guests to the path of totality for eclipses, allowing passengers to get a prime viewing spot and make a vacation of it.

What is a total solar eclipse?

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely blocks the face of the sun as it moves between the sun and Earth.

While the sun is about 400 times bigger than the moon, the moon is roughly 400 times closer to Earth. “In the past, the moon was much closer, and in the future, the moon will be much further away,” said Adam Burgasser, a professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the University of California, San Diego, and director of the Cool Star Lab, who served as an onboard expert during the cruise. “And so we're in a special time, which, of course, lasts for billions of years, where it's set up just right to block out the sun.”

Total solar eclipses take place about every 18 months on average, but the last one visible from the U.S. was in 2017 .

The phenomenon creates a multi-sensory experience, with a cold front moving in ahead of the eclipse. “You block the sun, and it gets cold,” said Burgasser. “It’s actually just that simple. And it's slow enough that the atmosphere can react.”

Plants and animals respond, too: Birds often begin to chirp, plants may close up, and nocturnal will come out. “It’s kind of an all-around-you experience where it's not just the fact that the sun has been blocked that’s so fascinating, but just the effect it has on the entire environment.” Those effects weren’t easily discernible on Koningsdam, though, which was about 150 miles from shore.

Nicole Chaput, a 57-year-old passenger from Calgary in Canada, said partial and total eclipses are “totally different.”

“I heard someone describe it as being partly pregnant,” she said. “You can’t do it. There’s no comparison.”

What makes a cruise a good place to see an eclipse?

Bad weather can wreck even the best-laid viewing plans. If a city in the path of totality has overcast skies, it can be tough to quickly move to an alternate site.

“If you're on a cruise ship and a little bit farther to the east or a little bit farther to the west along the path, there's clear sky, the ship can move,” said Dan Jarrell, who was on the cruise with his wife, Kay, and friends. The Washington, D.C.-area resident has seen solar eclipses with friends during two other sailings, including on Holland America’s Veendam in 1998.

“If you're on land and there's not a road there, you’d better have a tank,” Jarrell said.

That’s where a cruise ship comes in handy. “Having the ability to map out based on what the current weather is where you can catch the eclipse, and having a range over the course of the ocean where you could chase that a little bit is certainly helpful,” Burgasser added.

Capt. Ane Smit, Master aboard Holland America’s Zaandam for the viewing, said the ship can move at a maximum of 20 knots, so the crew needs to scout out the conditions with enough time to move as needed.

“If it's not good enough, we really need to start finding another spot because we are not the quickest vehicle, of course, to be driving around, but we have the luxury of being able to go in any direction without any restriction,” he said. “It’s a pretty wide highway that we have.”

The view of the horizon also allows passengers to “see that shadow coming in and leaving more so than you can in a topographical area,” said Burgasser. Being in the ocean away from city lights is also helpful for seeing stars and other parts of the sky usually only visible at night.

The cruise line also made the practicalities of watching an eclipse easier: eclipse glasses were distributed to guests’ staterooms and Burgasser guided guests through the event via the ship’s speaker system, before and after totality.

More eclipse cruises on the horizon

If you missed your chance to see it this time or want another go, Holland America has more eclipse-viewing opportunities on the books.

“Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's Vice President of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, said in an email. Details have not yet been released.

Other cruise lines offer similar opportunities as well. Princess Cruises' Emerald Princess was near Koningsdam on Monday.

Chaput, the Canadian passenger, said she’s been “chasing” total solar eclipses since seeing her first one in 1991. Monday’s eclipse marked her seventh viewing and second on a cruise ship.

“I think it’s just such an amazing natural phenomenon,” she said. “It’s seeing science in action.”

Contributing: Josh Rivera, USA TODAY

The reporter on this story received access to this sailing from Holland America Line. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected]

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Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

• Share full article

By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Travel | 8 new ships coming to Norwegian Cruise Line,…

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Subscriber only, travel | 8 new ships coming to norwegian cruise line, sister brands plus dock at great stirrup cay.

The parent company to Norwegian Cruise Line announced Monday a major order for eight new ships among its three brands as well as the construction of a pier to allow its cruise ships to dock instead of tender to its private Bahamas island for the first time.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings said it was planning to bring on four new ships for NCL, two new ships for upper premium brand Oceania Cruises and two ships for luxury brand Regent Seven Seas, all to be built at Fincantieri shipyard in Italy and debut during a 10-year run from 2026-2036.

The NCL ships would be the largest ever built for the line at around 200,000 gross tons and capacity of about 5,000 guests. They won’t arrive until after the final delivery of its Prima-Plus class ships expected between 2025-2028, the larger sister ships to the Norwegian Prima and Viva that debuted in the last couple of years. The four ships from the unnamed class of vessel would arrive in 2030, 2032, 2034 and 2036.

The new class for Oceania Cruises, which in 2023 debuted its first new ship in more than a decade — the Oceania Allura — will also be the largest ever built for the line at 86,000 gross tons and a capacity of 1,450 guests. They’re expected in 2027 and 2029.

And the Regent Seven Seas fleet’s new vessels will also be larger coming in at 77,000 gross tons with a capacity of 850 guests. They’re expected in 2026 and 2029. Regent just debuted the third of its Explorer class ships in December 2023.

“This strategic new-ship order across all three of our award-winning brands provides for the steady introduction of cutting-edge vessels into our fleet and solidifies our long-term growth,” said NCLH president and CEO Harry Sommer in a press release. “It also allows us to significantly leverage our operating scale, strengthen our commitment to innovation and enhance our ability to offer our guests new products and experiences, all while providing opportunities to enhance the efficiency of our fleet.”

No other details about the ships were released. Financing is already in place to fund 80% of the cost for the four ships among the Oceania and Regent orders, but financing for the four NCL ships is not finalized.

The eight ships expects to add 25,000 more to the three cruise lines’ passenger capacity.

In addition, the line is set to construct a multi-ship pier at Great Stirrup Cay, the popular Bahamas private destination visited by all three brands. The move follows the introduction of a dock that can support two Oasis-class vessels at neighboring Perfect Day at Coco Cay for Royal Caribbean while other private Bahamas destinations including Disney’s Castaway Cay and its new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point feature tenderless docks for easy access.

“We are likewise excited with the addition of a new pier at Great Stirrup Cay to support our increased capacity in the Caribbean and multiple ships to call on the island, enhancing our guest experience and bringing seamless and reliable access to our private island year-round,” Sommer said.

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Norwegian Cruise Line Cancels Over a Dozen Voyages in 2025 — What to Know

Guests impacted by the cancellations will receive a full refund and a 10% discount in the form of a Future Cruise Credit towards any sailing through Dec. 31, 2025.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is canceling over a dozen cruises 2025.  The cruise line is nixing multiple voyages throughout next year, Norwegian confirmed to Travel + Leisure on Friday. "The recent 2025 itinerary cancelations are a result of varied events including the ongoing situation in the Red Sea and Israel, modified dry dock schedules for ship enhancements, a full ship charter, and lastly, to accommodate the demand for shorter close-to-home voyages to the Bahamas," a spokesperson for the cruise line told T+L.

The affected itineraries are as follows:

• Norwegian Epic - , Feb. 20, 2025, Nov. 1, 2025, Nov. 11, 2025
• Norwegian Jade - Mar. 4, 2025, Mar. 13, 2025, Mar. 24, 2025
• Norwegian Pearl - Apr. 19, 2025, May 5, 2025, May 16, 2025, Oct. 15, 2025
• Norwegian Sky - May 27, 2025, Jun. 5, 2025
• Norwegian Spirit - Jan. 1, 2025, May 17, 2025
• Norwegian Star - May 18, 2025, May 29, 2025, Jun. 9, 2025,
• Norwegian Viva - May 27, 2025, Sep. 20, 2025, Sep. 29, 2025

The spokesperson also shared with T+L that guests impacted by the cancellations will receive a full refund and a 10% percent discount in the form of a Future Cruise Credit towards any sailing through Dec. 31, 2025. "In addition, we understand the inconvenience and frustration this disruption may cause affected guests, so we have shared alternative sailings similar to their original booking," the spokesperson added, encouraging impacted guests to head to contact the company at 1-800-327-7030 for more information.  

In February 2024, NCL also announced it would no longer dock in Venice, Italy, due to restrictions of the waterways.  “While we have made every effort possible to maintain these calls to Venice, the tender operation and overall experience this provides our guests has fallen short of the standard we aim to deliver,” a spokesperson from NCL told T+L at the time.  Despite the cancellations, the cruise industry continues to rebound since COVID-19 closures. The industry is expected to grow to 130 million global passengers in 2026, which is up from 73 million global passengers in 2022, according to a 2023 report from the Cruise Lines International Association. 

Why a major Miami cruise company has canceled over a dozen international trips for 2025

M iami-based Norwegian Cruise Line has canceled at least 14 cruises on 7 ships in 2025 as a booming industry confronts global conflict and other issues.

The cancellations include trips in May and September on Norwegian Viva, the company’s newest ship, and ones in April through June on Norwegian Sky, which frequently sails from PortMiami.

Norwegian said customers who are affected will get a full refund and a 10% discount on future sailings through Dec. 31, 2025.

In a statement, the company said that the cancellations “are a result of varied events, including the ongoing situation in the Red Sea and Israel, modified dry dock schedules for ship enhancements, a full ship charter, and lastly, to accommodate the demand for shorter close-to-home voyages to the Bahamas.”

Suspended trips include the Norwegian Jade from Feb. 20 through March 24, 2025. That ship often departs from Port Canaveral.

Norwegian remains optimistic about cruising. This week, the company ordered eight new ships, its largest ever single purchase, a milestone celebrated at Seatrade Cruise Global, a four-day annual industry conference at the Miami Beach Convention Center. They will be delivered between 2026 and 2036.

Since the terror group Hamas attacked Israel and the Gaza war started in October, cruise companies have been canceling trips to the Middle East.

Next year’s cruise cancellations affect passengers of the Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Sky, and Norwegian Viva.

A March 28 letter to passengers said: “We have been monitoring the situation in Israel, and despite our best hopes that it would de-escalate, we have made the decision to alter published itineraries that transit through and around the region.”

For Epic, the decision was made “in order to reroute her and accommodate the early start to her Caribbean cruise season.”

The Sky will be rerouted around Africa and deployed to Eastern, Western, and Southern Africa, a letter to those passengers said.

Viva is being sent to the Mediterranean, passengers were told in a letter.

Despite any security risks, major airlines including United and Delta have said they will resume flights to Israel. Next week, El Al resumes non-stop service between Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Tel Aviv twice a week. The Israeli airline continues to offer five flights a week from Miami International Airport.

Norwegian in its statement said the cruise company remains committed to taking its guests to “some of the most sought-out destinations around the world.” But sometimes, itineraries need to be modified to “accommodate certain circumstances.”

Other reasons for the cruise changes

But security in the Middle East isn’t the only reason for the changes.

The Norwegian Star canceled because of a “full ship charter.” That means a private organization offered to rent out the whole ship for an entire trip.

The Norwegian Spirit underwent a planned renovation in less time than anticipated, and so now wants to use that time for a longer trip. “As the renovation period will be complete prior to schedule, we now have the opportunity to enhance the originally scheduled January 21, 2025 itinerary, and offer a longer and more immersive experience,” it told guests in a letter.

Meanwhile the canceled sailings on the Norwegian Jade from Feb. 20 through March 25 is “part of a fleet redeployment to accommodate strong demand for cruises through the Panama Canal and to the Bahamas,” the company wrote in a letter to passengers.

Cruise cancellations list

Here is a full list of cruises canceled by Norwegian is listed here, provided by the company:

• Norwegian Spirit: Jan. 21, 2025
• Norwegian Jade: Feb. 20 through March 24, 2025
• Norwegian Sky: April 19 through June 5, 2025
• Norwegian Star: May 17 through June 9, 2025
• Norwegian Viva: May 18 and 27, and Sept. 20 and 29, 2025
• Norwegian Pearl: Oct. 15, 2025
• Norwegian Epic: Nov. 1 and Nov. 11, 2025

©2024 Miami Herald. Visit miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Norwegian Cruise Line passengers were stranded on a small African island after missing a deadline to re-embark

• A couple says they were stranded on an island after missing their cruise ship's boarding time.
• They were on a tour of São Tomé and Príncipe with six others, per US local media. It overran.
• The stranded group flew to Gambia on Sunday, hoping to catch the ship at another port.

A couple says they were stranded on a small African island after they missed a cruise ship 's boarding deadline, according to local media.

Jay and Jill Campbell, from Garden City, South Carolina, described their ordeal with a Norwegian Cruise Line ship in an interview with WPDE, their local ABC affiliate.

Norwegian confirmed to Business Insider that they were denied boarding, saying it was their responsibility to be on time.

The Campbells said they were frequent cruisers, embarking on Norwegian Dawn on March 20 for their third voyage with the cruise line in a year.

However, an excursion last Wednesday with six other people to São Tomé and Príncipe , an island nation of some 220,000 people off West Africa, took an unfortunate turn.

The couple says the tour overran, and its operator informed the captain that eight passengers were running late.

They were refused entry to the ship upon their return, according to WPDE, even though they could still see the ship from the shore.

The ship was anchored, Jay Campbell said, but the captain refused to let them board despite repeated calls and emails by the passengers to the ship and the cruise line's emergency hotline.

The São Tomé and Príncipe Coast Guard even took the passengers to the ship, but they weren't able to get on and had to turn back, WPDE reported.

In total, WPDE said that nine passengers were not allowed to reenter the ship, including four elderly people and one person who is a paraplegic.

The Campbells told the news outlet that the ninth passenger was late for another reason — an 80-year-old woman who got a concussion on the island and was hospitalized there.

Related stories

Most of the stranded passengers didn't have their medication or working credit cards, WPDE said.

The Campbells, who had a working card, said they covered $5,000 worth of expenses for the group in food, toiletries, and hotel bills.

"We have never had an experience like this before," Jill Campbell told WPDE.

The Norwegian Cruise Line said in a statement provided to BI by email that eight guests on the tour missed the last tender back to the vessel.

The cruise line said the passengers missed the "all aboard time of 3 p.m. local time." It said it was a "very unfortunate situation" but that passengers were responsible for being on time.

It added that the deadline to return was "communicated broadly" over the ship's intercom, in printed communications, and on posts shown at the exits of the ship.

The elderly passenger who was concussed was returned to the US, where she has made a "safe return," a spokesperson for Norwegian Cruise Line said.

According to WPDE, the group flew to Gambia on Sunday, hoping to rejoin the ship at another port.

A spokesperson for the cruise line said that the ship could not safely dock in Gambia due to adverse weather conditions, adding that efforts are being made for the guests to rejoin the ship in Senegal on Tuesday.

Though cruise ships need to stay punctual, ruined-vacation stories like this are a reputational risk and might put people off.

For instance, two MSC Splendida passengers were stranded last summer at an Italian port after arriving too late for departure.

A TikTok video showed the couple waving and begging the crew to wait for them, even though the gangway appeared to have already been removed.

Other passengers may face the stress of becoming stranded in remote locations through no fault of their own. Last September, more than 200 people got stuck in a remote part of Greenland after their cruise ship ran aground.

And last November, passengers were stranded at a Brisbane port after a Royal Caribbean ship was overbooked.

Watch: Stowaways survive 14 days at sea clinging to a ship rudder

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