Pacific Coast Explorer + Alaska Cruise
Trace the Pacific Coast from San Diego in Southern California to Alaska. Visit cosmpolitan San Francisco and Seattle before joining your cruise ship for a weeks' Alaskan cruise.
The Pacific Coast
Alaska
Cruising in Glacier Bay
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
Redwood trees
Glacier Bay, Alaska
Inside Passage wildlife
Portland
Washington Park, Portland
The glaciers near Juneau are awe inspiring
Mendenhall Glacier (optional from Juneau)
Portland and Mount hood
The Columbia River, Oregon
Space Needle, Seattle
Seattle
Seattle and Mount Rainier
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Your Itinerary
DAY 1: UK - San Diego.
Fly to San Diego where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for two nights.
DAY 2: San Diego.
Known as the 'Birthplace of California', San Diego has a strong Spanish influence. This morning, a comprehensive sightseeing tour includes the stunning downtown area, Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, Coronado Island and Old Town San Diego. The afternoon is at leisure.
DAY 3: San Diego - Los Angeles.
Today, start your epic coastal journey in glittering Los Angeles, the 'City of Angels'. During your tour of the city, visit Mann's Chinese Theatre, where nearly 200 movie stars have left their hand and foot prints, the popular Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Kodak Theatre, home of the Oscars. Other highlights include Beverly Hills and the legendary Sunset Strip.
DAY 4: Los Angeles.
The day is free for your own exploration. Visit Hollywood and the Hollywood History Museum, located in the old Max Factor Building. Stroll Olvera Street, the heart of the original Spanish Mission or visit the Getty Centre with its wonderful art collection.
DAY 5: Los Angeles - Santa Barbara - Solvang - San Luis Obispo.
This morning follow the shore line from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara where the Spanish influence is obvious, with quaint whitewashed and tile-roofed buildings. Visit the impressive 200 year-old Mission, with its world-famous twin bell towers. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the wharf and lunch on your own. Next you travel to Solvang, the Danish Capital of America. Free time to browse around the town's picturesque buildings, windmills and charming shops featuring Danish imports and rich pastries. Overnight in San Luis Obispo.
DAY 6: San Luis Obispo - San Simeon - Carmel - 17 Mile Drive - Monterey.
This morning, journey to San Simeon and visit Hearst Castle, the opulent mansion of the wealthy newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst. The castle's splendid antiques, art treasures and exotic possessions were purchased at an estimated cost of $50 million. Next visit Carmel, known as ‘California’s Jewel’ which attracted many artists, poets, musicians and actors. Make sure you do not miss the Cottage of Sweets and famed Hogs Breath Inn before travelling the 17 Mile Drive along the famous Pebble Beach to Monterey, made famous by John Steinbeck's novel 'Cannery Row'.
DAY 7: Monterey - San Francisco.
This morning leave Monterey and journey to San Francisco, one of the America's most charming cities. Your guided sightseeing tour lets you take in the breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge, Nob Hill and the bustling Fisherman's Wharf. Afterwards, take a boat trip to Alcatraz Island, and discover the history of this notorious former prison.
DAY 8: San Francisco.
The day is yours at leisure. Return to Fisherman's Wharf to enjoy its multitude of stores, markets and excellent waterside eating spots, perhaps stroll along Grant Street or ride the historic cable car. Tonight, join our optional evening out with dinner in Fisherman's Wharf followed by an illumination tour of San Francisco.
DAY 9: San Francisco - Sonoma - Eureka.
Bid farewell to San Francisco as you travel to the fertile wine-growing valley of Sonoma, crossing the Golden Gate Bridge en route. In Sonoma, enjoy a guided tour and wine tasting at one of the well-known wineries, before hitting the Avenue of the Giants, a 31-mile section of Highway 101 curling through soaring giant redwood groves. In the evening arrive at Eureka, hub of California's lumber industry, viewing Carson Mansion, the elaborate Victorian home of a lumber baron on the way.
DAY 10: Eureka - Redwood National Park - Coos Bay.
Today, take the coastal highway through Redwood National Park, a magnificent amphitheatre of towering sequoias. Enter Oregon and continue along the coastal road to the pretty seaside town of Bandon-by-the-Sea. A sightseeing tour will show you its scenic beauty and charm, then enjoy a photo stop at the Bandon lighthouse. Tonight stay in Coos Bay.
DAY 11: Coos Bay - Florence - Newport.
An exciting day awaits as we journey to Florence, one of Oregon's most beautiful and charming coastal settlements where you're free to explore the historic Old Town. From Florence, continue through the Siuslaw National Forest, past popular beach resorts to one of Oregon's favourite holiday spots - Newport. Late this afternoon enjoy an included visit to the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
DAY 12: Newport - Tillamook - Portland.
An enthralling day travelling the dramatic Three Capes Scenic Route to Tillamook. Along the route, don't miss the reading of signs telling the story of the ghost community that existed there 35-55 years ago. First stop is Cape Kiwanda with its spectacular views. Next, Cape Lookout State Park, then on to Three Arch Rocks. The last stop takes us to Cape Meares State Scenic viewpoint, 200 feet above the ocean. A must see is the Cape Meares Lighthouse at 38 feet high - it is the shortest lighthouse in the state. After visiting Tillamook Village, known for its cheese and salt-water taffy, arrive at Portland, dubbed the 'City of Roses', taking in Washington Park International Rose Test Garden.
DAY 13: Portland - Seattle.
Cross the mighty Columbia River into Washington State, stopping at the Mount St Helens Volcano Visitor Centre to learn of the dramatic eruption of 1980. Later this afternoon we reach Seattle - surrounded by the waters of Lake Washington and Puget Sound - the city also enjoys spectacular mountain views. Your sightseeing includes the Seattle Centre and a stop at vibrant Pike Place Farmers Market. Tonight an unmissable optional outing - a waterfront meal and panoramic views from the observation deck of the 605 feet high Space Needle.
DAY 14: Seattle.
The whole day free to enjoy the 'Emerald City'. Stroll the International District to absorb its Asian influences or visit the waterfront. Alternatively, take a cruiseboat across Puget Sound, relax at one of the many seafood restaurants, or visit Woodland Park Zoo.
DAY 15: Seattle to embark your cruise ship.
Transfer to the port in Seattle to embark your ship, MS Oosterdam. Set sail this afternoon. (D)
DAY 16: At sea.
A relaxing day at sea provides time to explore the ship's many amenities. (B, L, D)
DAY 17: Tracey Arm.
This narrow, 26 mile long fjord is another of Alaska's most dramatic glacier settings. The lush rain forest recedes to reveal a stunning canyon of bare rock. The panorama of 7,000 foot mountain peaks and nearly vertical rock cliffs is astounding. Waterfalls appear at every turn, icebergs make their way to the sea in all sorts of wondrous shapes and tucked away at the end of this remarkable waterway are two very active reminders of the Ice Age - the twin Sawyer Glaciers, calving icebergs into the jade-colored inland sea. Kittiwakes, mountain goats and seals are a common sight and whales and bears may even make an appearance in this magical place. (B, L, D)
DAY 18: Juneau.
Located at the foot of grand mountain peaks on the Gastineau Channel, the town of Juneau has the massive Mendenhall Glacier and the immense Juneau Icefields at its back door. Explore the lush Tongass National Forest or visit the rustic shops in town. Alternatively, you may wish to kayak, dogsled, raft, whale watch, fish or climb aboard the Mt. Roberts Tramway for a great place to hike. (B, L, D)
DAY 19: Sitka.
The onion domes of St. Michael's Cathedral are your first clue that Sitka was once a Russian settlement - the colonial headquarters of Count Baranof, no less. Discover the echoes of its heyday at a performance by the New Archangel Dancers. Be greeted by Tlingit native people, then stand on the spot where the United States took possession of Alaska in 1867 for $7.2 million, less than two cents per acre. The dramatic setting in the shadow of Mt. Edgecumbe is one of the lovliest in the Great Land. Take a stroll through old growth forest in Sitka National Historical Park, shop in the downtown district, and look around the Sheldon Jackson Museum for a close-up of some of the city's most prized arts, crafts and Russian relics. (B, L, D)
DAY 20: Ketchikan.
Built out over the water and climbing weathered stairways, Ketchikan clings to the shores of Tongass Narrows and drapes the mountains with a cheerful air. Besides seeing some of the main attractions - Creek Street, the Tongass Historical Museum, Totem Bight State Park and Saxman Village, why not try a flightseeing trip to breathtaking Misty Fjords National Monument? These deep water fjords left by retreating glaciers left granite cliffs towering thousands of feet above the sea and countless waterfalls cascading into placid waters. The souvenir photos you'll take from the pontoons of the plane are worth the trip alone. (B, L, D)
DAY 21: Victoria.
Discover the attractions of this splendid city, including the Royal British Columbia Museum, the famed Butchart Gardens - a brilliant tapestry of colour spread across 50 blooming acres, or afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel. (B, L, D)
DAY 22: Seattle - UK.
After breakfast, disembark your ship and transfer to the airport for your overnight flight to the UK. (B)
DAY 23: Home landing in the UK.
2013 Departures Now On Sale
2013 departures now on sale. Save £100 per couple - Book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - Book by 30 June 2012.
Your Holiday Map
Pacific Coast Explorer + Alaska Cruise
MS Oosterdam
Large inside cabin, MS Oosterdam
Large outside cabin, MS Oosterdam
Deluxe verandah cabin, MS Oosterdam
Lido Restaurant, MS Oosterdam
Pinnacle Grill Restaurant, MS Oosterdam
Queen's Lounge and Culinary Arts Centre, MS Oosterdam
Explorer's Lounge, MS Oosterdam
Vista Lounge, MS Oosterdam
Piano Bar, MS Oosterdam
Fitness Centre, MS Oosterdam
Hydro-pool in Greenhouse Spa, MS Oosterdam
Library, MS Oosterdam
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MS Oosterdam
One of Holland America Line's illustrious Vista-class ships, the sleek and stylish MS Oosterdam embodies the ultimate in classic ocean cruising coupled with the comfort and sophistication of ultra-modern facilities and technology. Providing plentiful public areas ornamented with priceless artwork, a magnificent Waterford crystal globe centrepiece, and lavish materials such as crystal, marble brass, and inlaid wood, MS Oosterdam comfortably accommodates 1,916 guests in light, comfortable and well-equipped cabins, and offers the best in entertainment, fine dining and luxurious cruising.
Public Rooms & Facilities
2 swimming pools (one with sliding glass roof); two-tiered Vista Dining Room; Lido Restaurant; Pinnacle Grill; casual Italian Canaletto; Terrace Grill; Pinnacle, Sea View, Ocean, Piano, Lido and Sports bars; Crows' Nest, Neptune and Explorers' lounges; Queen's Lounge and Culinary Arts Centre; Explorations internet café; Vista show lounge; volleyball and basketball courts; Greenhouse spa and salon with hydro pool and thermal suites; fitness centre and aerobics; observation deck; shops and boutiques; casino; nightclub; library; atrium; photo gallery; lifts; reception.
Dining
Your cruise includes full board. There is a choice of dining venues on board: the main Vista dining area has set dining or new 'dine as you wish' arrangements and a good selection of different menus. Casual dining is available in the Lido Restaurant most evenings with three courses of fresh, cooked-to-order specialities, and the informal Italian Canaletto, or guests may enjoy elegant, sophisticated dining in the reservations-only 'Pinnacle Grill' (additional cover charge per person applied to ship board account). Between meals there's the complimentary ice cream bar, hot hors d'oeuvres during the pre-dinner hour and after dinner there is the famous late night snack. Vegetarian or kosher meals and any special dietary requirements should be requested at the time of booking.
Cabins
All cabins have twin or queen size beds (or one sofa bed and one Pullman bed); air-conditioning/climate control; flat-panel TV; DVD player; and telephone. Inside cabins have a shower only while outside cabins have a shower and bathtub. Your holiday price is based on a category J cabin or you may choose to upgrade.
Options/Upgrades
Cabin Categories & Descriptions:
J Large or standard inside lower or upper deck cabin
D Large outside lower deck cabin with picture window
VC Deluxe verandah cabin with sitting area; private verandah; floor-to-ceiling windows
SS Superior verandah suite with whirlpool bath and shower; large sitting area; private verandah; floor-to-ceiling windows
Tipping
A gratuity of $11 per person per day for dining and cabin services will be automatically added to your shipboard account on a daily basis. A 15% service charge will be automatically added to your bar charges and dining room wine account.
MS Oosterdam
MS Oosterdam Sports Deck
MS Oosterdam Observation Deck
MS Oosterdam Lido Deck
MS Oosterdam Navigation Deck
MS Oosterdam Rotterdam Deck
MS Oosterdam Upper Verandah Deck
MS Oosterdam Verandah Deck
MS Oosterdam Upper Promenade Deck
MS Oosterdam Promenade Deck
MS Oosterdam Lower Promenade Deck
MS Oosterdam Main Deck
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Category J Main Deck standard inside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-sized bed
Category D Main Deck large outside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-sized bed and picture window
Category VC Verandah Deck Verandah Suite with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bath and shower, sitting area, private verandah, and floor-to-ceiling windows
Category SS Navigation Deck Superior Verandah Suite with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 king-size bed, an additional sofa bed, large sitting area, dressing room, bathroom with dual-sink vanity unit, full size whirlpool bath and separate shower, floor-to-ceiling windows and a private verandah
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The Pacific Coast
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Alaska
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Cruising in Glacier Bay
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Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
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Redwood trees
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Glacier Bay, Alaska
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Inside Passage wildlife
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Portland
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Washington Park, Portland
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The glaciers near Juneau are awe inspiring
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Mendenhall Glacier (optional from Juneau)
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Portland and Mount hood
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The Columbia River, Oregon
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Space Needle, Seattle
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Seattle
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Seattle and Mount Rainier
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Optional Excursions
To help you plan and make the most of your holiday, below is a list of optional excursions available to you.
San Diego Zoo
See the world's largest collection of animals is located at the famous San Diego Zoo. Admission includes guided bus tour, express bus, Skyfari Aerial Tram, the Children's Zoo, exhibits & shows and there is time to explore at your own pace.
$42 (US Dollar)
Two-Hour Harbor Cruise
Hornblower Cruises & Events welcomes you aboard one of their comfortable yachts touring beautiful San Diego Bay. Relax in comfort on the observation deck while the professional crew narrates the rich history, local points of interest and facts about San Diego landmarks and military. You'll see everything from sea lions to Navy SEALS, the spectacular Coronado Bridge, the famous Star of India, dry-docking and ship building facilities and the famous Hotel Del Coronado.
$28 (US Dollar)
USS Midway Museum - V-GLO
Imagine experiencing life at sea aboard one of America's longest-serving aircraft carriers. Visitors to the USS Midway Museum enter a floating city at sea and walk in the footsteps of 225,000 Midway sailors who served our country and upheld the American ideals of strength, freedom and peace. The USS Midway Museum is an unforgettable adventure for the entire family. Guests can spend the day exploring more than 60 exhibits with a collection of 25 restored aircraft. The self-guided audio tour, narrated by Midway, sailors brings the carriers history to life.
$18 (US Dollar)
Universal Studios Hollywood - One day admission - client ID #1074
No visit to the West Coast would be complete without seeing the world's largest motion picture and television studio. There's a chance to see live shows currently aired on TV, a screen test, comedy theater, and a daring stunt show.
$77 (US Dollar)
Movie Stars Homes With Hotel Transportation
You've seen their movies, now see where the stars actually live with our most popular tour! Sit back and relax in an air-conditioned Starline Mini-Buses, where other buses can't go (featured in "The Osbournes" and "Speed"), and see over 40 breathtaking mansions, in a fully narrated two- hour tour. Transportation provided from hotel.
$55 (US Dollar)
Movie Stars Homes From Chinese Theater
Movie Stars' Homes Tour in Los Angeles, provides an exclusive comprehensive narrated tour of breath-taking stars' homes in Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Bel-Air and Los Angeles as well as introducing you to Hollywood's iconic Sign and mile-long Walk of Fame, West Hollywood's glittering Sunset Strip and Beverly Hills's glamorous Rodeo Drive! Our professionally trained tour guides will take you in our air-conditioned or open-air mini-buses (featured in "The Osbournes" and "Speed") to see LA's most exclusive residential neighborhoods. During your two hour tour, your informative fun guide will take you to see over 40 breathtaking mansions. Celebrities are constantly moving in and out of the neighborhood, so bring your camera... you never know who you might see! (2 hours)
$47 (US Dollar)
Stars' Homes Tour
Cruise the Sunset Strip on our way to Beverly Hills and Bel Air where you will see a dazzling array of Stars' Homes, and well groomed parks, manicured gardens and Hillside Estates. Tour is approximately 2 hours.
$49 (US Dollar)
24-hour Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Bus Tour
Discover the whole of Los Angeles and get on or off the buses at over 50 stops! Enjoy the open-air view from our vintage Double Decker Buses from England as the narrated tour points out landmarks from Downtown L.A. to the beaches of Santa Monica, with Hollywood and Beverly Hills in between. Hop-On or Hop-Off as often as you like to explore major attractions, movie studios or dine and shop at Los Angeles's hotspots - when you're ready to continue, just hop back on the bus. This ticket allows you to transfer between routes. (24 hour pass)
$35 (US Dollar)
Warner Brothers' Studios VIP tour
The tour is intimate with a group of no more than twelve and transportation is provided by private electric cart. The VIP Tour guide will take you to where the action is and provide you with inside information and history on each set you visit. Walk on to a set of hit television shows (like The Ellen Show, The Mentalist, and Two and a Half Men - depending on availability), hear as Foley artists create sound effects for movies, see how sets are constructed, walk through rows and rows of costumes, watch a special effects demonstration, and the list goes on. There is plenty of exciting things to see and do on the Warner Brothers' VIP Tour. If you are a fan of Friends, you can step onto the recreated set of "Central Perk" from the hit television show and take a seat on their couch, or you can visit the prop department to see the furnishings of numerous movies and TV shows. The real vehicles from your favorite movies and television shows can be seen at the Transportation Museum and a visit to the Warner Brothers' memorabilia museum will take you into the past and present of moviemaking. Always be on the lookout for a star as production is happening all around. Your visit to Hollywood is not complete until you've experienced this one-of-a-kind tour!
$70 (US Dollar)
Warner Brothers' Studio & Movie Star Homes Tour
The tour is intimate with a group of no more than twelve and transportation is provided by private electric cart. The VIP Tour guide will take you to where the action is and provide you with inside information and history on each set you visit. Walk on to a set of hit television shows (like The Ellen Show, The Mentalist, and Two and a Half Men - depending on availability), hear as Foley artists create sound effects for movies, see how sets are constructed, walk through rows and rows of costumes, watch a special effects demonstration, and the list goes on. After Warner Brothers' Studios enjoy an exclusive comprehensive narrated tour of breath-taking stars' homes in Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Bel-Air and Los Angeles as well as introducing you to Hollywood's iconic Sign and mile-long Walk of Fame, West Hollywood's glittering Sunset Strip and Beverly Hills's glamorous Rodeo Drive!
$110 (US Dollar)
San Francisco By Night with dinner at The Franciscan
The evening begins with dinner at a popular Fisherman's Wharf restaurant and spectacular views of the bay. Afterwards visit historic Ghirardelli Square. Set on the city's dynamic waterfront, the square offers a great view of the sea and elegant 19th-century factor and mill buildings that are worth exploring. During your visit, relax with an Irish coffee and some world famous chocolates. Before heading back to your hotel we will drive out to Treasure Island to view the city lights from across the bay.
$63 (US Dollar)
Rocket Boat
Get blown away on this 30-minute high-speed tour of the City's historic waterfront. Sail past the sea lions, zoom to the Bay Bridge, fly down to AT&T Park, scream past Treasure Island, and breeze by Alcatraz on the way back to PIER 39. This exciting ride pauses occasionally to allow passengers to catch their breath and capture unique sightseeing and photo opportunities unavailable on other tours. RocketBoat, it's an extreme adventure powered by biodiesel fuel. A blast on the Bay that is not to be missed.
$24 (US Dollar)
Bay Cruise
This fully narrated one-hour tour sails under the majestic Golden Gate Bridge. Experience the thrilling history of San Francisco Bay with all the sound and glory it deserves. The tour also sails along San Francisco's historic waterfront where there's no better way to experience unobstructed views of sensational skylines in every direction. It's a great vantage point for snapping pictures or simply reflecting on the vast beauty of the San Francisco Bay. Sail past the PIER 39 sea lions, under the Golden Gate Bridge and circle Alcatraz Island. Onboard narration describes the City and its landmarks as you sail along in comfort; both indoor and outdoor seating are provided. (Cruise is 1 hour)
$25 (US Dollar)
Please note that optional excursions and prices are subject to change.
Pacific Coast Explorer + Alaska Cruise 21 nights
Availability and our best prices for all dates
Select the number in your party and departure month, update the calendar then select your holiday.
Pacific Coast Explorer + Alaska Cruise 21 nights
Availability and our best prices for all dates
Select the number in your party and accommodation options. Then select your holiday from the grid.
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| 26 Aug 2012 | Birmingham |
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| 26 Aug 2012 | Edinburgh |
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| 26 Aug 2012 | Glasgow |
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| 26 Aug 2012 | London Heathrow |
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| 26 Aug 2012 | Manchester |
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Pacific Coast Explorer + Alaska Cruise
Price from £2539.00
Holiday Highlights
- 17 Mile Drive
- San Francisco City sightseeing including Alcatraz
- Avenue of the Giants
- Redwood National Park
- Siuslaw National Forest
- Three Capes Scenic Route
Departures from
- Birmingham
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
- London Heathrow
- Manchester
Departures between
26 Aug 2012 to 09 Sep 2012
NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement, Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable). Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our air-inclusive holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme
© Copyright 2012. All rights reserved. All holidays and offers are subject to availability.
