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Avalon Waterways - Terms and Conditions



2012 Avalon Waterways Travel Terms & Conditions

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
The purchase of any travel services offered by Group Voyagers, Inc., doing business as Avalon Waterways (hereinafter "Avalon") constitutes a contractual arrangement between you and Avalon, and represents your acceptance of the Avalon Terms & Conditions set out herein. Please ensure that you read carefully and understand these Terms & Conditions prior to booking. You are advised to check on the Web sites or to request the latest version of the Terms & Conditions from your Travel Agent or Avalon prior to booking your vacation.

Cruise Deposit & Final Payment:
A non-refundable, non-transferable cruise deposit of $250 per person per vacation is required for Avalon to reserve space for you, with some limited exceptions as noted below. Avalon accepts checks, money orders, Visa, MasterCard, Discover/Novus, and American Express. Your booking is not confirmed and payment is not deemed made until the deposit is received by Avalon and you receive a confirmation invoice. Your reservation will be automatically canceled if deposit is not received by Avalon by the deposit due date. On certain departures, deposits may be required at time of booking to hold or to confirm space for you. Payment of the deposit indicates you have read and accepted these Terms & Conditions.

Please review and verify your booking invoice thoroughly and contact your Travel Agent or Avalon immediately if your invoice appears to be incorrect or incomplete, as it may not be possible to make changes later. Avalon cannot accept responsibility if we are not notified of inaccuracies within 5 days of sending out the invoice. In the case of billing errors, Avalon reserves the right to re-invoice you with correct pricing.

Final payment for your cruise vacation is due 90 days prior to commencement of services. If final payment is not received by the due date, your reservation will be canceled and your full deposit, including Travel Protection payments and any air deposits or Instant Purchase Air purchases, will be retained by Avalon. Avalon is not responsible for canceled land, cruise or air reservations in the event payment is not received by the final payment date. Payment in full is required at time of booking for reservations made within the final payment date of your vacation.

For group reservations, Travel Agents should refer to the Group Policy, which will be provided to you by Avalon upon request and is also located in the Travel Agent Portal.

Acceptance on the vacation is subject to presentation of the Avalon Traveler Certificate, which will be available in your final Travel Documents.

Avalon air options: Flex-Air and Instant Purchase Air. Flex-Air allows flexibility if you want to make changes to your vacation schedule. Instant Purchase Air may offer additional airline options but has more restrictions. Some vacations may only offer one Air type option.

Air-Inclusive Vacation Deposits and Final Payment:
The following additional payments are required for International air added to the start and/or end of your vacation and/or for Intra-vacation air as specified in the itinerary. International air and/or Intra-vacation air price quotes will show how much of your total trip cost is made up of government-imposed taxes and fees applicable at the time of booking. Air pricing is guaranteed upon receipt of full land plus air deposit or land plus full airfare price depending on type of airfare purchased (Flex-Air or Instant Purchase Air).

Flex-Air: An additional $250 per person, non-refundable air deposit is required for Flex-Air booked in conjunction with an Avalon vacation. Applicable cruise deposit as above is also required at time of booking.

Instant Purchase Air: Full air payment plus a $30 service fee is required, and will be included with the quote, at time of booking for Instant Purchase Air booked in conjunction with an Avalon vacation. Applicable cruise deposit as above also required at time of booking. Once booked Instant Purchase Air is non-changeable and non-refundable after 24-hours from purchase.

Flex-Air or Instant Purchase Air can only be booked by Avalon in conjunction with an Avalon vacation package and is only available from the United States.

Intra-vacation air: An additional $250 per person, non-refundable air deposit is required for packages with Intra-vacation air as noted in the itinerary. Applicable land plus Flex-Air deposits or Instant Purchase Air full payment as above is also required at time of booking.

Airfare prices include all taxes, fees and fuel surcharges though may be broken out into separate invoice line items. These taxes and fees include:
• September 11th Security Fee up to $10 per person
• Passenger facility charges up to $18 per person
• Federal domestic flight segment fees up to $3.70 per segment
• All U.S. and International arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airlines and applicable at the time of booking.

Booking Cancellations & Cancellation Fees:
If a booking cancellation is received by Avalon prior to the final payment date of your vacation, your non-refundable cruise deposits plus your Flex-Air deposit, Instant Purchase Air payment and service fee and/or Intra-vacation air deposit plus Travel Protection payments will be retained. For individual reservations, the following per person cancellation fees apply. Total price does not include discounts, promotions, or special incentives. (For group reservations, refer to the Group Policy.)

Standard Cancellation Fees:
• 90-60 days prior to commencement of services: 35% of total price* plus Travel Protection payments
• 59-30 days prior to commencement of services: 50% of total price* plus Travel Protection payments
• 29-1 days prior to commencement of services: 80% of total price* plus Travel Protection payments
• On departure day and later: 100% of total price* plus Travel Protection payments

*Total price does not include Instant Purchase Air or Instant Purchase Air service fees which are non-refundable after 24-hours from purchase and will be retained in addition to the above cancellation fees. Airfare taxes are refundable however.

Cancellation fees may also apply to any additional services, including extra night accommodations, independently supplied services, and optional excursions reserved prior to, during, and after the tour. If flight changes, including but not limited to flight cancellations or name changes, are requested after full land/cruise and air deposits are received, revision fees, change fees, or airline cancellation fees will apply (see "Revision Fees" below). In many instances, airline revision or change fees can be up to $250, but in some instances may be up to 100% of the ticket price. Cancellation penalties will be quoted at time of cancellation.

Avalon reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any vacation departure for any reason, including insufficient demand or force majeure. If a vacation is canceled prior to departure, Avalon's only responsibility will be to refund the amount received for the reservation. Avalon will try to rebook the same vacation with a different departure date or a similar vacation but there are no guarantees of availability or offering. For air-inclusive vacations, Avalon will try to confirm air schedules for the selected new dates, subject to availability. Avalon cannot assume responsibility for any additional costs or any fees relating to the issuance and/or cancellation of air tickets or other travel arrangements not made through Avalon.

Revisions and Revision Fees:
In addition to any airline-imposed change fees, a fee of $30 per transaction will be charged by Avalon for any alteration or revision made to a reservation after deposit or payment is received. Any revision to a booking, including but not limited to flight cancellations or name changes, may result in the loss of confirmed airline reservations or increased airfare, which will be payable by you. In many instances for Flex-Air purchases airline revision or change fees are up to $250, but in some instances may be up to 100% of the ticket price. Instant Purchase Air and associated service fees are non-refundable and non changeable after 24-hours from purchase thus alterations or revisions to a booking with Instant Purchase Air will require new air to be purchased and is subject to full payment as above. Payment of refundable air taxes will be applied to the amended booking.

Intra-vacation air and hotel penalties may also apply to alternations or revisions to a booking and may be up to 100% of the full price. A change of traveler name, vacation date, or itinerary within final payment will be treated as a full cancellation and new reservation; vacation and airfare cancellation fees (as above) apply.

Air Arrangements:
International airfare may be purchased through Avalon for travel originating from the United States. All carriers are independent operators and are not owned, managed or operated by Avalon. Your airline ticket is a contract between you and the air carrier only, even if you purchase through Avalon. By purchasing your air services through Avalon you waive all liability for Avalon for such air services.

Avalon is not responsible if an airline cancels, reschedules, or delays a flight for any reason. If you purchased air through Avalon, we will try to assist in making new arrangements providing you have not already checked in with your airline for your first flight segment. After check-in, you must work with the airline directly to reach your destination or to make any alternate arrangements including amendments to return services. Please be aware that airline fees often apply for modifications to air schedules not related to airline-imposed flight cancellations, reschedules, or delays. These fees will be payable to the airline directly at time of request. If you miss your departure flight or connection, it is your responsibility to work with the airline on which you are ticketed to reach your destination. No refunds will be provided by Avalon for portions of trips missed due to canceled, rescheduled, or delayed flights after airport check-in, nor is Avalon responsible for any additional expenses you may incur prior to joining your trip if you miss your departure flight or flight connection.

For air purchased through Avalon, if any air schedule requires an overnight stay in a gateway city, Avalon can assist you with hotel reservations; however, the cost of the overnight stay (including but not limited to hotel and meals) is at your expense. Air routings are subject to availability. Routings are not guaranteed and are subject to change at any time.

If you make your own flight arrangements, Avalon will not be responsible for any loss resulting from cancellation or changes in international gateways, itineraries, or travel dates. We recommend that you do not purchase airline tickets with high penalty charges for changes.

Under the new Secure Flight Program enacted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires airlines to collect information from you for the purposes of watch list matching. TSA may share information you provide with law enforcement or intelligence agencies or others under its published system of records notice. At time of booking a vacation with air reservations, Avalon will collect the required information and add to your air booking to pass to the airline(s) for the Secure Flight Program. The information includes full name, date of birth, gender, and redress number (if available). Failure to provide the required TSA information at time of booking will result in the loss of confirmed flights and airfare price as information is required for ticketing. Rebooking lost airfare is subject to schedule availability at time of rebooking and may result in alternate flight schedules and/or increases in airfare price. Any increase in airfare price is payable by you.

Some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. For more information about aircraft disinfection requirements and a list of countries requiring disinfection of in-bound flights, please visit http://ostpxweb.dot.gov/policy/safetyenergyenv/disinsection.htm

Participation:
For the benefit of everyone on your vacation, Avalon reserves the right to accept or reject any vacation participant and to remove any participant whose conduct is deemed incompatible with the interests of the other participants. Avalon will not refund or cover any cost or expenses incurred for termination of vacation arrangements due to unacceptable behavior.

Travelers Who Need Special Assistance on Tours and/or Cruises:
You must report any disability requiring special attention while on tour or on cruise to Avalon at the time the reservation is made. Avalon will make reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled travelers, but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so nor responsible for any denial of services by air carriers, hotels, restaurants, or other independent suppliers. Avalon cannot provide individual assistance to a vacation participant for walking, dining, getting on and off motorcoaches, cruise ships, and other vehicles, or other personal needs. Avalon strongly recommends a qualified and physically able companion accompany travelers who need such assistance. All travelers with Avalon are subject to the Participation clause above.

Not all sightseeing stops/sites accommodate wheelchairs and some locations and sightseeing activities require extensive standing, sitting, or walking, sometimes on unpaved or cobblestone streets. Avalon is not responsible for any missed activities due to a participant's inability to participate with the group. The Americans with Disabilities Act is only applicable within the United States and facilities for disabled individuals are limited outside its borders. Most transportation services, including the touring motorcoaches and cruise ships, are not equipped with wheelchair ramps. Motorized scooters are not typically suitable on international tours.

Although some of our ships have elevators, many of our small ships do not. Passengers requiring ship elevators should inquire before making reservations. Additionally, most stateroom doors and restrooms are not wide enough to allow access by standard wheelchairs, and bathrooms and other doorways may be fitted with coamings. For safety reasons, passengers in wheelchairs cannot be carried on ramps in ports where the ship is at anchor.

Pregnant Travelers
Avalon does not have specialized facilities and/or treatments required for childbirth, prenatal or early infant care on board its cruise ships nor may those facilities be available at ports of call or on land stays. Avalon strongly urges pregnant travelers to consider the risks of traveling where necessary medical care for pregnancy may not be available and may not be reachable in a timely manner to address potential medical complications, problems and emergencies that can occur during pregnancy.

Young Travelers:
Travelers who are under 18 years old on the departure date must be accompanied by an adult throughout the vacation and are requested to share an adult's accommodation. Children under 8 years of age are not allowed on any Avalon vacation. For any special requirements regarding airline tickets for children, contact your airline directly.

There are no discounts for young travelers on Avalon cruise vacations.

Due to heightened security, many countries have adopted practices to prevent international abductions of children. If a child will be traveling with adults other than the parents or with only one parent, it is recommended that a notarized letter be written by the parents or non-traveling parent granting authorization to travel, including the dates of travel. We suggest that you also contact the appropriate consulate and airlines because they may have additional requirements or recommendations.

Smoking:
Smoking is not allowed on transportation that is exclusively provided by Avalon. On cruise ships, smoking is restricted to certain areas of the vessel. On European river cruise ships, smoking is allowed only on the vessels' outside decks where ashtrays are available.

Price Policy:
All vacation prices are based on rates (reflecting foreign exchange rates) known at the time of publication and expected to be in effect at the time of departure, and do not include airfare except where noted on specific itineraries. Vacation prices are per person, based on double occupancy (two people sharing a room). Single room supplements and triple reductions are listed where applicable. Not all accommodation types are available on all vacations. Prices are subject to increase without notice, subject to the guarantees set forth below.

Once Avalon has received your full cruise deposit for any cruise vacation, that cruise price is guaranteed and you are protected against any base land or cruise price increase due to currency surcharge. Any subsequent land or cruise cost increases are at Avalon' expense, not including energy cost increases and/or any government tax increases.

Pricing for air-inclusive vacations, including those with Intra-vacation air, are guaranteed when Avalon has received your full cruise plus air deposits as noted above. Avalon reserves the right to ticket Flex-Air bookings, and vacations with Intra-vacation air upon receipt of full deposits thus any subsequent reservation changes made at your request are subject to airline-imposed change fees, cancellation fees and/or changes in airfare price, which are your responsibility to pay. Instant Purchase Air is ticketed upon receipt of full air payment and thus full cancellation fees as noted above apply. International air is only available to passengers traveling from the United States and only available when booked in conjunction with a cruise vacation.

Vacation departures in 2016 are subject to itinerary modifications. Full details will be available in May 2014. Travelers have the right to cancel their reservation without penalty within 7 days of notification in the event of itinerary modifications for departures in 2016 prior to the release of the 2016 brochure. Vacations with Instant Purchase Air will receive full refunds for changes to vacations or vacations dates in 2014 with the release of the 2014 brochure providing notification of cancellation is received within 7 days.

Visas & Passports:
You are responsible for obtaining and paying for all visas and entry documents, for meeting all health and other requirements, and for any documents required by the laws, regulations, orders, and/ or requirements of the countries you will visit. Visa and entry documents must be obtained independently. Non-U.S. citizens must consult with appropriate consulates to determine if any visas are needed. Avalon is not responsible for providing you with specific visa and passport information or documentation, for any fees associated with obtaining these documents, and Avalon cannot accept liability for any passenger refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure of the passenger to carry correct documentation.

All passengers traveling internationally are required to have a passport. Most countries require that the passport be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the conclusion of your trip. It is recommended you have a minimum of three blank pages in your passport when traveling, as many countries require blank pages. Multiple-entry visas are required for some vacations. It is your responsibility to verify all visa and passport requirements. The process of obtaining a visa and/or passport can take up to three months or more.

Some government agencies in foreign countries require Avalon to collect and pass on certain personal and other details related to you, including but not limited to government-issued identification and passport details. If you fail to supply the details as requested fully and accurately, your trip may be interrupted or cancelled. There are no refunds for failure to provide documentation or failure to provide documentation by the time required.

Hotels & Accommodations:
The hotels listed in this brochure are intended to be used on all departures however hotels are not guaranteed. Avalon reserves the right to substitute other hotels than those listed on the itinerary pages. If a change becomes necessary for any reason, including alternate hotels for additional departures on the same date, or hotel location changes within or outside itinerary cities, the hotel substituted will be of an equivalent or higher quality to those shown. No refunds are provided for hotel changes; full cancellation penalties as noted above apply. Every effort is made to reserve only twin-bedded rooms. Occasionally, some hotels will only provide double-bedded rooms. These rooms will be allocated to couples. Please note that check-in times vary worldwide; Avalon cannot control or guarantee check-in times.

Baggage Allowance:
Porterage at hotels for one suitcase per person is included in the vacation price. Airport and train station porterage is not included unless otherwise specified in your travel documents. Please be prepared to carry your own suitcase on and off airplanes and trains and through airports and train stations.

Your single bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30"x21"x11" and weight not exceeding 50lbs (22kg). We regret that we are unable to accept a second suitcase or any luggage exceeding these limits on any Avalon vacation outside of Europe. Some vacations have more restrictive regulations than these listed above. Please refer to your Travel Documents for more information.

Air carrier restrictions may vary from the limitations listed above. Size and weight limitations for carry-on and checked baggage vary from airline to airline and even according to destination, and are becoming more restrictive. While making a booking online at www.Avalonwaterways.com you will be provided with baggage fee information. After booking, up-to-date information on carrier specific standard checked baggage allowance (including size and weight limitations), the standard allowance (and fee, if applicable) for carry-on baggage, and the standard fee for the first and second checked bag, along with the information that additional discounts may apply depending on flyer-specific factors (.e.g. frequent flyer status, military, credit card used for purchase or early purchase over the internet, etc.) can be found on the carrier's website or by accessing www.iflybags.com. Please read this information carefully as Avalon is not responsible for additional fees imposed by air carriers for baggage and these fees are not included in the airfare or the vacation package price. You will be required to pay these fees directly to the airline at check-in.

Regulations within most airports require that travelers handle their own luggage through customs. No responsibility is accepted by Avalon for loss of or damage to baggage or any of the traveler's belongings throughout the duration of the vacation. Baggage insurance is recommended. See the Avalon Web site for an all-inclusive Travel Protection plan.

Carry-on bags should not exceed the dimensions of 12"x11"x6". For safety reasons, wheeled carryon bags are not suitable as hand luggage on motorcoaches and mini-buses. Carry-on bags must be small enough to store in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you on motorcoaches and other transportation.

Travel Documents:
Passenger Travel Documents, including e-ticket itineraries, are sent by regular ground delivery approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure, provided full invoice payment has been received. If available, a service charge per reservation is added for documents requested in advance and/or for 2-day delivery. Please indicate at the time of reservation whether you prefer regular ground delivery or 2-day delivery. Two-day delivery with related charges is required for reservations made within 45 days of commencement of services and for delivery outside the continental United States; charges will be quoted at time of reservation.

Gratuities
Gratuities are included for services during the land stay of your vacation. This includes wait staff at included meals, hospitality staff at hotels for nights purchased through Avalon, and porterage at hotels for one suitcase per person. Gratuities for your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Hosts, Local Guides, and ship's crew are not included in the vacation price and are discretionary.

Not Included In The Land/Cruise Vacation Price (When Air Is Not Purchased Through Avalon):
The following charges are not included in the cruise vacation price: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; Intra-vacation air unless specified as included in the itinerary; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees including the September 11th Security fee up to $10 per person, passenger facility charges up to $18 per person, Federal domestic flight segment fees up to $3.70 per segment, and U.S. and International arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port fees and taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted Avalon menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; airport transfers with cruise only vacations, porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature.

Some South America countries (Argentina and Chile) require international travelers to pay entry and/or exit fees at the airport. These fees will be collected by the local government and are payable by the traveler at time of travel. Your confirmation booking information will contain information about these fees. If you would like more information prior to booking, please contact your Travel Consultant.

Refunds:
Please note that any request for refunds is subject to these Terms & Conditions; no refund will be made for unused services, for unused transportation where group activity tickets are involved or for voluntary modifications made by the traveler. Airport transfers are complimentary with air booked through Avalon on qualifying flights and dates; not all flights or dates qualify. Customers not using the included transfer will not be given a cash equivalent or vacation price reduction.

Service Inquiries after the Vacation:
As it is difficult and sometimes impossible to properly investigate a complaint if Avalon is not advised of such complaint quickly, any compensation you may have been able to claim could be reduced or even forfeited if you do not follow the complaints procedure set out in this clause.

After returning from your vacation, if you wish to inquire about any services provided, please ensure that all correspondence relating to those services is received by Avalon, Traveler Services, Group Voyagers, Inc. (see address under "Responsibility").

Any complaint or claim involving the vacation services offered in this brochure, involving the negligence of any suppliers, sub-contractors, or agents in relation to any service provided to the vacation participant, must be notified to Avalon while on vacation or within 30 days of the vacation completion, except where such time limitations are prohibited by law.

Holidays and Special Events:
During local or national holidays or special events, peek seasons, on Sundays, and during religious occasions, certain facilities such as museums, churches, restaurants, sightseeing tours, hotels, and shopping may be limited or not available. Alternatives will be offered whenever possible. Avalon cannot be held responsible for any closures, necessary itinerary changes or curtailments for any reason.

Christmas Market Vacations:
Please note that Christmas markets generally close around the third week of December.

Safety:
Please be aware that during your participation in vacations operated by Avalon, certain risks and dangers may arise beyond our control, including but not limited to: the hazards of traveling in undeveloped areas; travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft, or other means of transportation; forces of nature; political unrest; acts of lawlessness or terrorism; and accident or illness in remote regions without means of rapid evacuation or medical facilities. Avalon will not have liability regarding provision of medical care or the adequacy of any care that may be rendered. While Avalon will use its best efforts to ensure that adequate measures are taken, by agreeing to participate in a vacation and/or optional excursions you agree that you will hold Avalon harmless regarding any provision of medical care or the adequacy of any care rendered. Avalon is not responsible for such risks and dangers that may arise beyond our control. Payment of your deposit indicates you accept these risks and dangers and agree to hold Avalon harmless for such.

Photographs or Pictures:
Photographs or pictures appearing on the website should be used solely as an indication of facilities and attractions. Actual facilities and attractions may vary according to itinerary. Maps shown on the vacation pages are current at the time of printing and may not reflect the actual routing should the itinerary change.

Optional Excursions & Activities:
Optional activities and excursions ("the Services") available for booking are provided by local operators or other third parties that are entirely independent of Avalon and do not form any part of the product or services sold to you by Avalon or of these Terms & Conditions, even where Avalon suggests particular operators/other third parties and/or assists you in booking such optional activities or excursions. Your contract for such Services will be with the organizer or operator of that Service and will be subject to its Terms & Conditions, which may contain exclusions or limitations of liability. Avalon has no liability for any such optional activity or excursion or for any act(s) or omission(s) of the organizer or operator or for any of its employees or agents or any other person(s) connected with the optional activity or excursion.

Any advice or assistance on or with any Service provided by any local representative does not mean or imply that the Service is sold, supervised, or controlled by Avalon or that any such advice or assistance is given on behalf of Avalon. Vacation participants are asked to check with the operator of any optional activity or excursion and the applicable Terms & Conditions before booking.

For operational reasons, not all optional excursions listed in the cruise itinerary, this brochure, in print, online or in travel documents may be available during your vacation. Your Cruise Director will advise of availability while on cruise.

Itinerary Changes – Cruises:
In the event of water level problems on stretches of any river, or of technical problems of any nature, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motorcoach. Avalon reserves the right to change the itinerary whenever conditions, in the opinion of the Master of the Ship or local waterways regulations, render it advisable or necessary. In addition, river and other local authorities often need to carry out repair or maintenance work on the river or canal banks, stretches of river or canal, bridges, locks or docks, or other areas which may impede river cruise travel. This is frequently undertaken with little or no advance notice to river cruise operators, and can cause Avalon Waterways to make changes to the published itinerary or to operate part of the itinerary by motorcoach with little to no advance notice. These events are beyond our control and Avalon Waterways will not be responsible for any loss, expense, or inconvenience caused by reasons of such changes.

Avalon reserves the right to cancel, advance, or postpone any scheduled tour and/or sailing date and may, but is not obligated to, substitute another vessel, and shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever to tour/cruise participants by reason of any such cancellation, advancement, or postponement. In the event of cancellation by Avalon, tour/cruise participants' only right of recourse shall be to a refund of monies paid to Avalon in connection with such tour/cruise. In the event of charters of the vessels, strikes, lockouts, riots, or stoppage of labor for whatever cause or for any other reason whatsoever, Avalon may at any time cancel, advance, or postpone any scheduled sailing and may, but is not obliged to, substitute another vessel and shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever to tour/ cruise participants by reason of any such cancellation, advancement, or postponement.

Responsibility:
Group Voyagers, Inc., located at 5301 South Federal Circle, Littleton, Colorado 80123, is an independent company ("the Company") licensed to market and distribute travel products under the Avalon brand name, and arrange for the vacation services offered in this brochure, including transportation, sightseeing, and accommodations through independent contracts. Air carriers, accommodations, and other suppliers (including but not limited to trains, cruises, ferries, motorcoaches, hotels, and restaurants) providing services are independent contractors and are not agents, employees, servants, or joint venturers of the Company or its affiliates. All certificates and other travel documents for services issued by the Company are subject to the Terms & Conditions specified by the supplier, which are available upon request, and to the laws of the countries in which the services are supplied.

The international carriage of passengers is subject to international conventions and treaties, where applicable. These international agreements limit and, in some events, exclude the carrier's liability to passengers (vacation participants). Where any claim or part of a claim (including those involving death or personal injury) concerns or involves any travel arrangements (including the process of getting on or off the transport concerned) provided by any air, sea, inland waterways, rail, or road carrier or any stay in a hotel, the Company's maximum liability is the maximum which would be payable by the carrier or the hotel keeper concerned under the applicable international convention, treaty, or regulation applicable to the travel arrangements or hotel stay (e.g., the Warsaw Convention, the Montréal Convention for international travel by air, the EU Regulation on Air Carrier Liability for air carriers with an operating license granted by an EU country, the Athens Convention for international travel by sea) in that situation.

After departure, if the services included in the vacation cannot be supplied or there are changes in an itinerary for reasons beyond the control of the Company, depending on the circumstances, the Company will take reasonable action to arrange for the provision of comparable services. Any resulting additional expense will be the responsibility of vacation participants, and any resulting savings will be refunded by the Company to vacation participants.

The Company reserves the right to accept or reject any person as a vacation participant; to expel any participant from the vacation; to make changes in the itinerary whenever the Company deems it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the participants; and to cancel a vacation at any time.

The vacation participant agrees that neither the Company nor its affiliates shall be liable for any damage, loss (including personal injury, death, and property loss), or expense occasioned by any act or omission of any supplier providing services, any insurer or insurance administrator under the Travel Protection Plan, or any other person.

Any dispute between the vacation participant and the Company directly or indirectly relating to the Terms & Conditions shall be first submitted to mediation at Denver, Colorado, before a mediator mutually agreed to by the parties. If mediation is not successful, the dispute must be resolved by binding arbitration under Colorado law before the Judicial Arbiter Group or its successor located at 1601 Blake Street, Denver, Colorado 80202. The prevailing party shall be entitled to an award of costs and reasonable attorneys' fees. Any action to enforce the arbitrator's decision shall be brought in the state or federal courts in the State of Colorado.

Arbitration against the Company must be commenced within one year following the date of vacation completion. Neither the Company nor any affiliate shall in any case be liable for other than compensatory damages, and you hereby waive any right to punitive damages.

No person, other than an authorized representative of the Company by a document in writing, is authorized to vary, add, or waive any term or condition on its Web site, including any term or condition set forth in the preceding provisions.

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2013 Avalon Waterways Travel Terms & Conditions

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
The purchase of any travel services offered by Group Voyagers, Inc., doing business as Avalon Waterways (hereinafter "Avalon") constitutes a contractual arrangement between you and Avalon, and represents your acceptance of the Avalon Terms & Conditions set out herein. Please ensure that you read carefully and understand these Terms & Conditions prior to booking. You are advised to check on the Web sites or to request the latest version of the Terms & Conditions from your Travel Agent or Avalon prior to booking your vacation.

Cruise Deposit & Final Payment:
A non-refundable, non-transferable cruise deposit of $250 per person per vacation is required for Avalon to reserve space for you, with some limited exceptions as noted below. Avalon accepts checks, money orders, Visa, MasterCard, Discover/Novus, and American Express. Your booking is not confirmed and payment is not deemed made until the deposit is received by Avalon and you receive a confirmation invoice. Your reservation will be automatically canceled if deposit is not received by Avalon by the deposit due date. On certain departures, deposits may be required at time of booking to hold or to confirm space for you. Payment of the deposit indicates you have read and accepted these Terms & Conditions.

Please review and verify your booking invoice thoroughly and contact your Travel Agent or Avalon immediately if your invoice appears to be incorrect or incomplete, as it may not be possible to make changes later. Avalon cannot accept responsibility if we are not notified of inaccuracies within 5 days of sending out the invoice. In the case of billing errors, Avalon reserves the right to re-invoice you with correct pricing.

Final payment for your cruise vacation is due 90 days prior to commencement of services. If final payment is not received by the due date, your reservation will be canceled and your full deposit, including Travel Protection payments and any air deposits or Instant Purchase Air purchases, will be retained by Avalon. Avalon is not responsible for canceled land, cruise or air reservations in the event payment is not received by the final payment date. Payment in full is required at time of booking for reservations made within the final payment date of your vacation.

For group reservations, Travel Agents should refer to the Group Policy, which will be provided to you by Avalon upon request and is also located in the Travel Agent Portal.

Acceptance on the vacation is subject to presentation of the Avalon Traveler Certificate, which will be available in your final Travel Documents.

Avalon air options: Flex-Air and Instant Purchase Air. Flex-Air allows flexibility if you want to make changes to your vacation schedule. Instant Purchase Air may offer additional airline options but has more restrictions. Some vacations may only offer one Air type option.

Air-Inclusive Vacation Deposits and Final Payment:
The following additional payments are required for International air added to the start and/or end of your vacation and/or for Intra-vacation air as specified in the itinerary. International air and/or Intra-vacation air price quotes will show how much of your total trip cost is made up of government-imposed taxes and fees applicable at the time of booking. Air pricing is guaranteed upon receipt of full land plus air deposit or land plus full airfare price depending on type of airfare purchased (Flex-Air or Instant Purchase Air).

Flex-Air: An additional $300 per person, non-refundable air deposit is required for Flex-Air booked in conjunction with an Avalon vacation. Applicable cruise deposit as above is also required at time of booking.

Instant Purchase Air: Full air payment plus a $30 service fee is required, and will be included with the quote, at time of booking for Instant Purchase Air booked in conjunction with an Avalon vacation. Applicable cruise deposit as above also required at time of booking. Once booked Instant Purchase Air is non-changeable and non-refundable after 24-hours from purchase.

Flex-Air or Instant Purchase Air can only be booked by Avalon in conjunction with an Avalon vacation package and is only available from the United States.

Intra-vacation air: An additional $250 per person, non-refundable air deposit is required for packages with Intra-vacation air as noted in the itinerary. Applicable land plus Flex-Air deposits or Instant Purchase Air full payment as above is also required at time of booking.

Airfare prices include all taxes, fees and fuel surcharges though may be broken out into separate invoice line items. These taxes and fees include:
• September 11th Security Fee up to $10 per person
• Passenger facility charges up to $18 per person
• Federal domestic flight segment fees up to $3.70 per segment
• All U.S. and International arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airlines and applicable at the time of booking.

Booking Cancellations & Cancellation Fees:
If a booking cancellation is received by Avalon prior to the final payment date of your vacation, your non-refundable cruise deposits plus your Flex-Air deposit, Instant Purchase Air payment and service fee and/or Intra-vacation air deposit plus Travel Protection payments will be retained. For individual reservations, the following per person cancellation fees apply. Total price does not include discounts, promotions, or special incentives. (For group reservations, refer to the Group Policy.)

Standard Cancellation Fees:
• 90-60 days prior to commencement of services: 35% of total price* plus Travel Protection payments
• 59-30 days prior to commencement of services: 50% of total price* plus Travel Protection payments
• 29-1 days prior to commencement of services: 80% of total price* plus Travel Protection payments
• On departure day and later: 100% of total price* plus Travel Protection payments

*Total price does not include Instant Purchase Air or Instant Purchase Air service fees which are non-refundable after 24-hours from purchase and will be retained in addition to the above cancellation fees. Airfare taxes are refundable however.

Cancellation fees may also apply to any additional services, including extra night accommodations, independently supplied services, and optional excursions reserved prior to, during, and after the tour. Cancellation penalties will be quoted at time of cancellation.

Avalon reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any vacation departure for any reason, including insufficient demand or force majeure. If a vacation is canceled prior to departure, Avalon's only responsibility will be to refund the amount received for the reservation. Avalon will try to rebook the same vacation with a different departure date or a similar vacation but there are no guarantees of availability or offering. For air-inclusive vacations, Avalon will try to confirm air schedules for the selected new dates, subject to availability. Avalon cannot assume responsibility for any additional costs or any fees relating to the issuance and/or cancellation of air tickets or other travel arrangements not made through Avalon.

Revisions and Revision Fees:
In addition to any airline-imposed change fees, a fee of $30 per transaction will be charged by Avalon for any alteration or revision made to a reservation after deposit or payment is received. Any revision to a booking, including but not limited to flight cancellations or name changes, may result in the loss of confirmed airline reservations or increased airfare, which will be payable by you. In many instances for Flex-Air purchases airline revision or change fees are up to $300, but in some instances may be up to 100% of the ticket price. Instant Purchase Air and associated service fees are non-refundable and non changeable after 24-hours from purchase thus alterations or revisions to a booking with Instant Purchase Air will require new air to be purchased and is subject to full payment as above. Payment of refundable air taxes will be applied to the amended booking.

Intra-vacation air and hotel penalties may also apply to alternations or revisions to a booking and may be up to 100% of the full price. A change of traveler name, vacation date, or itinerary within final payment will be treated as a full cancellation and new reservation; vacation and airfare cancellation fees (as above) apply.

Air Arrangements:
International airfare may be purchased through Avalon for travel originating from the United States. All carriers are independent operators and are not owned, managed or operated by Avalon. Your airline ticket is a contract between you and the air carrier only, even if you purchase through Avalon. By purchasing your air services through Avalon you waive all liability for Avalon for such air services.

Avalon is not responsible if an airline cancels, reschedules, or delays a flight for any reason. If you purchased air through Avalon, we will try to assist in making new arrangements providing you have not already checked in with your airline for your first flight segment. After check-in, you must work with the airline directly to reach your destination or to make any alternate arrangements including amendments to return services. Please be aware that airline fees often apply for modifications to air schedules not related to airline-imposed flight cancellations, reschedules, or delays. These fees will be payable to the airline directly at time of request. If you miss your departure flight or connection, it is your responsibility to work with the airline on which you are ticketed to reach your destination. No refunds will be provided by Avalon for portions of trips missed due to canceled, rescheduled, or delayed flights after airport check-in, nor is Avalon responsible for any additional expenses you may incur prior to joining your trip if you miss your departure flight or flight connection.

For air purchased through Avalon, if any air schedule requires an overnight stay in a gateway city, Avalon can assist you with hotel reservations; however, the cost of the overnight stay (including but not limited to hotel and meals) is at your expense. Air routings are subject to availability. Routings are not guaranteed and are subject to change at any time.

If you make your own flight arrangements, Avalon will not be responsible for any loss resulting from cancellation or changes in international gateways, itineraries, or travel dates. We recommend that you do not purchase airline tickets with high penalty charges for changes.

Under the new Secure Flight Program enacted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires airlines to collect information from you for the purposes of watch list matching. TSA may share information you provide with law enforcement or intelligence agencies or others under its published system of records notice. At time of booking a vacation with air reservations, Avalon will collect the required information and add to your air booking to pass to the airline(s) for the Secure Flight Program. The information includes full name, date of birth, gender, and redress number (if available). Failure to provide the required TSA information at time of booking will result in the loss of confirmed flights and airfare price as information is required for ticketing. Rebooking lost airfare is subject to schedule availability at time of rebooking and may result in alternate flight schedules and/or increases in airfare price. Any increase in airfare price is payable by you.

Some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. For more information about aircraft disinfection requirements and a list of countries requiring disinfection of in-bound flights, please visit http://ostpxweb.dot.gov/policy/safetyenergyenv/disinsection.htm

Participation:
For the benefit of everyone on your vacation, Avalon reserves the right to accept or reject any vacation participant and to remove any participant whose conduct is deemed incompatible with the interests of the other participants. Avalon will not refund or cover any cost or expenses incurred for termination of vacation arrangements due to unacceptable behavior.

Travelers Who Need Special Assistance on Tours and/or Cruises:
You must report any disability requiring special attention while on tour or on cruise to Avalon at the time the reservation is made. Avalon will make reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled travelers, but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so nor responsible for any denial of services by air carriers, hotels, restaurants, or other independent suppliers. Avalon cannot provide individual assistance to a vacation participant for walking, dining, getting on and off motorcoaches, cruise ships, and other vehicles, or other personal needs. Avalon strongly recommends a qualified and physically able companion accompany travelers who need such assistance. All travelers with Avalon are subject to the Participation clause above.

Not all sightseeing stops/sites accommodate wheelchairs and some locations and sightseeing activities require extensive standing, sitting, or walking, sometimes on unpaved or cobblestone streets. Avalon is not responsible for any missed activities due to a participant's inability to participate with the group. The Americans with Disabilities Act is only applicable within the United States and facilities for disabled individuals are limited outside its borders. Most transportation services, including the touring motorcoaches and cruise ships, are not equipped with wheelchair ramps. Motorized scooters are not typically suitable on international tours.

Although some of our ships have elevators, many of our small ships do not. Passengers requiring ship elevators should inquire before making reservations. Additionally, most stateroom doors and restrooms are not wide enough to allow access by standard wheelchairs, and bathrooms and other doorways may be fitted with coamings. For safety reasons, passengers in wheelchairs cannot be carried on ramps in ports where the ship is at anchor.

Pregnant Travelers
Avalon does not have specialized facilities and/or treatments required for childbirth, prenatal or early infant care on board its cruise ships nor may those facilities be available at ports of call or on land stays. Avalon strongly urges pregnant travelers to consider the risks of traveling where necessary medical care for pregnancy may not be available and may not be reachable in a timely manner to address potential medical complications, problems and emergencies that can occur during pregnancy.

Young Travelers:
Travelers who are under 18 years old on the departure date must be accompanied by an adult throughout the vacation and are requested to share an adult's accommodation. Children under 8 years of age are not allowed on any Avalon vacation. For any special requirements regarding airline tickets for children, contact your airline directly.

There are no discounts for young travelers on Avalon cruise vacations.

Due to heightened security, many countries have adopted practices to prevent international abductions of children. If a child will be traveling with adults other than the parents or with only one parent, it is recommended that a notarized letter be written by the parents or non-traveling parent granting authorization to travel, including the dates of travel. We suggest that you also contact the appropriate consulate and airlines because they may have additional requirements or recommendations.

Smoking:
Smoking is not allowed on transportation that is exclusively provided by Avalon. On cruise ships, smoking is restricted to certain areas of the vessel. On European river cruise ships, smoking is allowed only on the vessels' outside decks where ashtrays are available.

Price Policy:
All vacation prices are based on rates (reflecting foreign exchange rates) known at the time of publication and expected to be in effect at the time of departure, and do not include airfare except where noted on specific itineraries. Vacation prices are per person, based on double occupancy (two people sharing a room). Single room supplements and triple reductions are listed where applicable. Not all accommodation types are available on all vacations. Prices are subject to increase without notice, subject to the guarantees set forth below.

Once Avalon has received your full cruise deposit for any cruise vacation, that cruise price is guaranteed and you are protected against any base land or cruise price increase due to currency surcharge. Any subsequent land or cruise cost increases are at Avalon' expense, not including energy cost increases and/or any government tax increases.

Pricing for air-inclusive vacations, including those with Intra-vacation air, are guaranteed when Avalon has received your full cruise plus air deposits as noted above. Avalon reserves the right to ticket Flex-Air bookings, and vacations with Intra-vacation air upon receipt of full deposits thus any subsequent reservation changes made at your request are subject to airline-imposed change fees, cancellation fees and/or changes in airfare price, which are your responsibility to pay. Instant Purchase Air is ticketed upon receipt of full air payment and thus full cancellation fees as noted above apply. International air is only available to passengers traveling from the United States and only available when booked in conjunction with a cruise vacation.

Vacation departures in 2016 are subject to itinerary modifications. Full details will be available in May 2014. Travelers have the right to cancel their reservation without penalty within 7 days of notification in the event of itinerary modifications for departures in 2014 prior to the release of the 2016 brochure. Vacations with Instant Purchase Air will receive full refunds for changes to vacations or vacations dates in 2014 with the release of the 2014 brochure providing notification of cancellation is received within 7 days.

Visas & Passports:
You are responsible for obtaining and paying for all visas and entry documents, for meeting all health and other requirements, and for any documents required by the laws, regulations, orders, and/ or requirements of the countries you will visit. Visa and entry documents must be obtained independently. Non-U.S. citizens must consult with appropriate consulates to determine if any visas are needed. Avalon is not responsible for providing you with specific visa and passport information or documentation, for any fees associated with obtaining these documents, and Avalon cannot accept liability for any passenger refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure of the passenger to carry correct documentation.

All passengers traveling internationally are required to have a passport. Most countries require that the passport be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the conclusion of your trip. It is recommended you have a minimum of three blank pages in your passport when traveling, as many countries require blank pages. Multiple-entry visas are required for some vacations. It is your responsibility to verify all visa and passport requirements. The process of obtaining a visa and/or passport can take up to three months or more.

Some government agencies in foreign countries require Avalon to collect and pass on certain personal and other details related to you, including but not limited to government-issued identification and passport details. If you fail to supply the details as requested fully and accurately, your trip may be interrupted or cancelled. There are no refunds for failure to provide documentation or failure to provide documentation by the time required.

Hotels & Accommodations:
The hotels listed in this brochure are intended to be used on all departures however hotels are not guaranteed. Avalon reserves the right to substitute other hotels than those listed on the itinerary pages. If a change becomes necessary for any reason, including alternate hotels for additional departures on the same date, or hotel location changes within or outside itinerary cities, the hotel substituted will be of an equivalent or higher quality to those shown. No refunds are provided for hotel changes; full cancellation penalties as noted above apply. Every effort is made to reserve only twin-bedded rooms. Occasionally, some hotels will only provide double-bedded rooms. These rooms will be allocated to couples. Please note that check-in times vary worldwide; Avalon cannot control or guarantee check-in times.

Baggage Allowance:
Porterage at hotels for one suitcase per person is included in the vacation price. Airport and train station porterage is not included unless otherwise specified in your travel documents. Please be prepared to carry your own suitcase on and off airplanes and trains and through airports and train stations.

Your single bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30"x21"x11" and weight not exceeding 50lbs (22kg). We regret that we are unable to accept a second suitcase or any luggage exceeding these limits on any Avalon vacation outside of Europe. Some vacations have more restrictive regulations than these listed above. Please refer to your Travel Documents for more information.

Air carrier restrictions may vary from the limitations listed above. Size and weight limitations for carry-on and checked baggage vary from airline to airline and even according to destination, and are becoming more restrictive. While making a booking online at www.Avalonwaterways.com you will be provided with baggage fee information. After booking, up-to-date information on carrier specific standard checked baggage allowance (including size and weight limitations), the standard allowance (and fee, if applicable) for carry-on baggage, and the standard fee for the first and second checked bag, along with the information that additional discounts may apply depending on flyer-specific factors (.e.g. frequent flyer status, military, credit card used for purchase or early purchase over the internet, etc.) can be found on the carrier's website or by accessing www.iflybags.com. Please read this information carefully as Avalon is not responsible for additional fees imposed by air carriers for baggage and these fees are not included in the airfare or the vacation package price. You will be required to pay these fees directly to the airline at check-in.

Regulations within most airports require that travelers handle their own luggage through customs. No responsibility is accepted by Avalon for loss of or damage to baggage or any of the traveler's belongings throughout the duration of the vacation. Baggage insurance is recommended. See the Avalon Web site for an all-inclusive Travel Protection plan.

Carry-on bags should not exceed the dimensions of 12"x11"x6". For safety reasons, wheeled carryon bags are not suitable as hand luggage on motorcoaches and mini-buses. Carry-on bags must be small enough to store in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you on motorcoaches and other transportation.

Travel Documents:
Passenger Travel Documents, including e-ticket itineraries, are sent by regular ground delivery approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure, provided full invoice payment has been received. If available, a service charge per reservation is added for documents requested in advance and/or for 2-day delivery. Please indicate at the time of reservation whether you prefer regular ground delivery or 2-day delivery. Two-day delivery with related charges is required for reservations made within 45 days of commencement of services and for delivery outside the continental United States; charges will be quoted at time of reservation.

Gratuities
Gratuities are included for services during the land stay of your vacation. This includes wait staff at included meals, hospitality staff at hotels for nights purchased through Avalon, and porterage at hotels for one suitcase per person. Gratuities for your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Hosts, Local Guides, and ship's crew are not included in the vacation price and are discretionary.

Not Included In The Land/Cruise Vacation Price (When Air Is Not Purchased Through Avalon):
The following charges are not included in the cruise vacation price: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; Intra-vacation air unless specified as included in the itinerary; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees including the September 11th Security fee up to $10 per person, passenger facility charges up to $18 per person, Federal domestic flight segment fees up to $3.70 per segment, and U.S. and International arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port fees and taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted Avalon menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; airport transfers with cruise only vacations, porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature.

Some South America countries (Argentina and Chile) require international travelers to pay entry and/or exit fees at the airport. These fees will be collected by the local government and are payable by the traveler at time of travel. Your confirmation booking information will contain information about these fees. If you would like more information prior to booking, please contact your Travel Consultant.

Refunds:
Please note that any request for refunds is subject to these Terms & Conditions; no refund will be made for unused services, for unused transportation where group activity tickets are involved or for voluntary modifications made by the traveler. Airport transfers are complimentary with air booked through Avalon on qualifying flights and dates; not all flights or dates qualify. Customers not using the included transfer will not be given a cash equivalent or vacation price reduction.

Service Inquiries after the Vacation:
As it is difficult and sometimes impossible to properly investigate a complaint if Avalon is not advised of such complaint quickly, any compensation you may have been able to claim could be reduced or even forfeited if you do not follow the complaints procedure set out in this clause.

After returning from your vacation, if you wish to inquire about any services provided, please ensure that all correspondence relating to those services is received by Avalon, Traveler Services, Group Voyagers, Inc. (see address under "Responsibility").

Any complaint or claim involving the vacation services offered in this brochure, involving the negligence of any suppliers, sub-contractors, or agents in relation to any service provided to the vacation participant, must be notified to Avalon while on vacation or within 30 days of the vacation completion, except where such time limitations are prohibited by law.

Holidays and Special Events:
During local or national holidays or special events, peek seasons, on Sundays, and during religious occasions, certain facilities such as museums, churches, restaurants, sightseeing tours, hotels, and shopping may be limited or not available. Alternatives will be offered whenever possible. Avalon cannot be held responsible for any closures, necessary itinerary changes or curtailments for any reason.

Christmas Market Vacations:
Please note that Christmas markets generally close around the third week of December.

Safety:
Please be aware that during your participation in vacations operated by Avalon, certain risks and dangers may arise beyond our control, including but not limited to: the hazards of traveling in undeveloped areas; travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft, or other means of transportation; forces of nature; political unrest; acts of lawlessness or terrorism; and accident or illness in remote regions without means of rapid evacuation or medical facilities. Avalon will not have liability regarding provision of medical care or the adequacy of any care that may be rendered. While Avalon will use its best efforts to ensure that adequate measures are taken, by agreeing to participate in a vacation and/or optional excursions you agree that you will hold Avalon harmless regarding any provision of medical care or the adequacy of any care rendered. Avalon is not responsible for such risks and dangers that may arise beyond our control. Payment of your deposit indicates you accept these risks and dangers and agree to hold Avalon harmless for such.

Photographs or Pictures:
Photographs or pictures appearing on the website should be used solely as an indication of facilities and attractions. Actual facilities and attractions may vary according to itinerary. Maps shown on the vacation pages are current at the time of printing and may not reflect the actual routing should the itinerary change.

Optional Excursions & Activities:
Optional activities and excursions ("the Services") available for booking are provided by local operators or other third parties that are entirely independent of Avalon and do not form any part of the product or services sold to you by Avalon or of these Terms & Conditions, even where Avalon suggests particular operators/other third parties and/or assists you in booking such optional activities or excursions. Your contract for such Services will be with the organizer or operator of that Service and will be subject to its Terms & Conditions, which may contain exclusions or limitations of liability. Avalon has no liability for any such optional activity or excursion or for any act(s) or omission(s) of the organizer or operator or for any of its employees or agents or any other person(s) connected with the optional activity or excursion.

Any advice or assistance on or with any Service provided by any local representative does not mean or imply that the Service is sold, supervised, or controlled by Avalon or that any such advice or assistance is given on behalf of Avalon. Vacation participants are asked to check with the operator of any optional activity or excursion and the applicable Terms & Conditions before booking.

For operational reasons, not all optional excursions listed in the cruise itinerary, this brochure, in print, online or in travel documents may be available during your vacation. Your Cruise Director will advise of availability while on cruise.

Itinerary Changes – Cruises:
In the event of water level problems on stretches of any river, or of technical problems of any nature, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motorcoach. Avalon reserves the right to change the itinerary whenever conditions, in the opinion of the Master of the Ship or local waterways regulations, render it advisable or necessary. In addition, river and other local authorities often need to carry out repair or maintenance work on the river or canal banks, stretches of river or canal, bridges, locks or docks, or other areas which may impede river cruise travel. This is frequently undertaken with little or no advance notice to river cruise operators, and can cause Avalon Waterways to make changes to the published itinerary or to operate part of the itinerary by motorcoach with little to no advance notice. These events are beyond our control and Avalon Waterways will not be responsible for any loss, expense, or inconvenience caused by reasons of such changes.

Avalon reserves the right to cancel, advance, or postpone any scheduled tour and/or sailing date and may, but is not obligated to, substitute another vessel, and shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever to tour/cruise participants by reason of any such cancellation, advancement, or postponement. In the event of cancellation by Avalon, tour/cruise participants' only right of recourse shall be to a refund of monies paid to Avalon in connection with such tour/cruise. In the event of charters of the vessels, strikes, lockouts, riots, or stoppage of labor for whatever cause or for any other reason whatsoever, Avalon may at any time cancel, advance, or postpone any scheduled sailing and may, but is not obliged to, substitute another vessel and shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever to tour/ cruise participants by reason of any such cancellation, advancement, or postponement.

Responsibility:
Group Voyagers, Inc., located at 5301 South Federal Circle, Littleton, Colorado 80123, is an independent company ("the Company") licensed to market and distribute travel products under the Avalon brand name, and arrange for the vacation services offered in this brochure, including transportation, sightseeing, and accommodations through independent contracts. Air carriers, accommodations, and other suppliers (including but not limited to trains, cruises, ferries, motorcoaches, hotels, and restaurants) providing services are independent contractors and are not agents, employees, servants, or joint venturers of the Company or its affiliates. All certificates and other travel documents for services issued by the Company are subject to the Terms & Conditions specified by the supplier, which are available upon request, and to the laws of the countries in which the services are supplied.

The international carriage of passengers is subject to international conventions and treaties, where applicable. These international agreements limit and, in some events, exclude the carrier's liability to passengers (vacation participants). Where any claim or part of a claim (including those involving death or personal injury) concerns or involves any travel arrangements (including the process of getting on or off the transport concerned) provided by any air, sea, inland waterways, rail, or road carrier or any stay in a hotel, the Company's maximum liability is the maximum which would be payable by the carrier or the hotel keeper concerned under the applicable international convention, treaty, or regulation applicable to the travel arrangements or hotel stay (e.g., the Warsaw Convention, the Montréal Convention for international travel by air, the EU Regulation on Air Carrier Liability for air carriers with an operating license granted by an EU country, the Athens Convention for international travel by sea) in that situation.

After departure, if the services included in the vacation cannot be supplied or there are changes in an itinerary for reasons beyond the control of the Company, depending on the circumstances, the Company will take reasonable action to arrange for the provision of comparable services. Any resulting additional expense will be the responsibility of vacation participants, and any resulting savings will be refunded by the Company to vacation participants.

The Company reserves the right to accept or reject any person as a vacation participant; to expel any participant from the vacation; to make changes in the itinerary whenever the Company deems it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the participants; and to cancel a vacation at any time.

The vacation participant agrees that neither the Company nor its affiliates shall be liable for any damage, loss (including personal injury, death, and property loss), or expense occasioned by any act or omission of any supplier providing services, any insurer or insurance administrator under the Travel Protection Plan, or any other person.

Any dispute between the vacation participant and the Company directly or indirectly relating to the Terms & Conditions shall be first submitted to mediation at Denver, Colorado, before a mediator mutually agreed to by the parties. If mediation is not successful, the dispute must be resolved by binding arbitration under Colorado law before the Judicial Arbiter Group or its successor located at 1601 Blake Street, Denver, Colorado 80202. The prevailing party shall be entitled to an award of costs and reasonable attorneys' fees. Any action to enforce the arbitrator's decision shall be brought in the state or federal courts in the State of Colorado.

Arbitration against the Company must be commenced within one year following the date of vacation completion. Neither the Company nor any affiliate shall in any case be liable for other than compensatory damages, and you hereby waive any right to punitive damages.

No person, other than an authorized representative of the Company by a document in writing, is authorized to vary, add, or waive any term or condition on its Web site, including any term or condition set forth in the preceding provisions.

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