On each sea day, a ‘Coaching Session’ will be held every morning, followed by a Duplicate game in the afternoon. Additionally, on numerous port days, an afternoon Duplicate game will be scheduled if we return to the ship on time. A partner is always provided, ensuring you can always participate when a game is on.
DECK
PLANS
Launching in December 2018, Nieuw Statendam carries forward the nautical heritage, signature service and classic style for which Holland America Line is known—while raising the bar for 21st-century elegance. Guests onboard Nieuw Statendam will love her interiors; grand light-filled spaces, visual drama and sumptuous interiors inspired by the fluid curves of musical instruments. A beautifully appointed midsized ship with elegant lines, she proudly reflects more than 140 years of Dutch seafaring tradition. There are ten delicious dinning venues and the wonderfully relaxing Greenhouse Spa. With sophisticated décor and amenities, staterooms provide a welcoming haven at the end of an eventful day, designed with thoughtful modern touches such as bedside USB ports, frameless shower doors and customized wood cabinets. Dazzling entertainment options abound on board Nieuw Statendam. The new Lincoln Centre Stage and Billboard Onboard venues join the already popular B.B. King’s Blues Club for a complete new “Music Walk” experience.
Embark on another memorable Bridge Cruise/Holiday with Gary Brown and the OZ Bridge Travel team. Gary, the author of six Bridge books, including one that clinched the 2007 American Bridge Teachers’ Association’s ‘Book of the Year’, has also created Flash Cards (the Ultimate Guide by the Bridge Player’s Side). Gary conducts duplicates, teaches seminars, and arranges Bridge Holidays globally, with over 59 Cruise Holidays/Bridge Boot Camps to his credit. We are dedicated to making your journey a ‘trip of a lifetime’. Our Bridge program is extensive yet laid-back; you can play when you want to, with a partner guaranteed. Non-bridge playing Spouses/partners are also welcome – as there’s a world of activities to discover and enjoy!
VIEW ITINERARYDAY 1 Wednesday 20 August 2025 Departure
Today we depart Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth on our overnight
flight to London.
DAY 2 Thursday 21 August 2025 London, Britain
This morning, we arrive at London’s Heathrow Airport. After clearing customs a
private coach will pick us up to embark on a sightseeing tour of the city with a
focus on Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square and St Paul’s Cathedral.
In the afternoon, we’ll check into our hotel.
DAY 3 Friday 22 August 2025 London
This morning, we visit Buckingham Palace and enjoy a tour of 19 spectacular
State rooms. Buckingham Palace is furnished with the wonderful treasures
from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rubens, Rembrandt, Poussin
and more world-renowned artists. The afternoon is free time for shopping,
leisure and private time.
DAY 4 Saturday 23 August 2025 Embarkation
Mid-morning we will depart London and be transferred to Dover to board the
Nieuw Statendam for our voyage around the British Isles. Dover is the closest
point to mainland Europe and is known as the “Gateway to England.” Be on deck
to view the famous White Cliffs of Dover – as we set sail for our Britain cruise.
DAY 5 Sunday 24 August 2025 Rotterdam, The Netherlands
This morning, we arrive into the port of Rotterdam for an overview tour of the
old town before being transferred to Amsterdam where we will enjoy a city
canal cruise with fantastic views of the 17th-century buildings lining the canals.
DAY 6 Monday 25 August 2025 At Sea
Our first day at sea and our first full day of Bridge! Morning coaching followed
by lunch, then an afternoon Duplicate.
DAY 7 Tuesday 26 August 2025
Edinburgh, Scotland
Today, we explore Edinburgh, the historic and regal capital of Scotland, renowned
as one of Europe’s most picturesque cities. Our tour highlights the venerable
Royal Mile, whose cobblestone streets are the core of the medieval Old Town,
stretching from the Palace of Holyrood House (His Majesty the King’s official
Scottish residence) to the formidable Edinburgh Castle. We’ll relish a guided
tour of the castle, the custodian of the Scottish Crown Jewels and the celebrated
Stone of Destiny. The panoramic views from the castle are breathtaking.
DAY 8 Wednesday 27 August 2025 Lerwick, Shetland Islands
This morning, we arrive in Lerwick, Shetland’s sole town, and commence our
tour with a brief panoramic drive around this small capital, established in the
1600s. Next, we’ll proceed to Central and West Mainland to explore Scalloway,
the erstwhile capital of Shetland. Our visit includes the Scalloway Museum,
home to the notable Shetland Bus exhibit that illustrates the village’s distinctive role during World War II when the German occupation of Norway led to a surge
of refugees to Shetland. Our journey will take us through Tingwall Valley,
steeped in Norse legacy. We will pause to admire the renowned Shetland
ponies with time for photographs.
DAY 9 Thursday 28 August 2025
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands
Today, our journey takes us to the Orkney Islands. Kirkwall, situated on Main
land, the largest of the Orkney Islands, is our first stop. Our sightseeing tour
includes the magnificent 12th-century Norse St Magnus’ Cathedral, crafted
from sandstone. We’ll also explore some of Europe’s most remarkable
archaeological sites, such as the enigmatic Standing Stones of Stenneses, and
the Neolithic Ring of Brodgar. As we traverse the island, we’ll be greeted by its
dramatic natural landscapes, from sheer cliffs to the abundant birdlife.
DAY 10 Friday 29 August 2025
Stornoway, Hebrides
Today’s tour of the Isle of Lewis starts in the historic port and Viking town of
Stornoway. We’ll delve into the Hebridean island’s unique history and culture,
and explore landmarks such as the 5,000-year-old Callanish Standing Stones,
the 19th-century Blackhouse in Arnol, and the ancient Carloway Broch, dating
back 2,500 years.
DAY 11 Saturday 30 August 2025 At Sea
A full program of Bridge and/or a day to enjoy the facilities of the ship.
DAY 12 Sunday 31 August 2025 Belfast, Northern Ireland
This morning, we arrive in Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland and the seat
of its Parliament, known as Stormont. Our tour starts with a visit to the Titanic
Dry Dock, followed by a sightseeing journey around Belfast, taking in sights
such as the City Hall, the Grand Opera House, Queen’s University, and the
Albert Memorial Clock.
DAY 13 Monday 1 September 2025
Liverpool, England
This morning, we will arrive at the port city of Liverpool, the cultural capital
within the county of Lancashire, renowned for its vibrant culture, significant
maritime history, and the iconic Mersey waterfront. Globally recognized as the
birthplace of The Beatles during the era of the Mersey Beat, Liverpool holds a
special place in music history. Our sightseeing tour includes Matthew Street,
the location of the Cavern Club where The Beatles performed. We’ll also visit
the Mersey waterfront and embark on a ferry ride across the River Mersey,
immortalized by Jerry & the Pacemakers.
DAY 14 Tuesday 2 September 2025
Glasgow, Scotland
Today, we arrive in Glasgow, a city brimming with style, vitality, and a distinct
gritty history. Originating from modest beginnings, Glasgow flourished from
the wealth of the industrial revolution. Our morning tour will showcase this as
we pass by the Glasgow Cathedral and make our way through the Merchant
City. Moving from Glasgow Cross, we’ll enter the medieval section of the city
and Glasgow Green, where we’ll encounter the People’s Palace and the Victoria
Fountain, the largest terracotta fountain in the world.
DAY 15 Wednesday 3 September 2025
Douglas, Isle of Man
This morning, we’ll embark on a tour of the Isle of Man, nestled in the Irish
Sea between England and Ireland. Setting out from Douglas, our journey takes
us through the island’s heart to Tynwald, the site of the original Viking Manx
parliament from the 10th century. This remarkable system of self-governance
has persisted for over a millennium, earning it the title of the world’s oldest
continuous parliament. Our tour proceeds to Peel, situated on the island’s
western shore, where the remnants of an ancient Celtic cathedral and the pink
sandstone fortifications of a 14th-century castle stand. We’ll explore the House
of Manannan heritage centre, which delves into the Isle of Man’s extensive and
intriguing past. You’ll learn about Manannan, the storied sea deity, the lives of
the Celts and Vikings, and the Irish Sea’s historic role as a bustling avenue for
trade and cultural exchange, once navigated by Viking vessels.
DAY 16 Thursday 4 September 2025
Waterford, Ireland
This morning, we relish a scenic drive through the Waterford countryside
before arriving in Waterford city. The city’s name originates from the Old Norse
word ‘Vadrefjord’, which translates to ‘Water Fjord’. Today, it is renowned for
its exquisite crystal. We tour the House of Waterford Crystal, witnessing both
the production process and the splendid final products. Our exploration of the
town includes a visit to Reginald’s Tower, an ancient stronghold built in 1003 as
part of the Danish defences, which Strongbow later seized in 1171. Our journey
concludes with a return to Dunmore East and the port.
DAY 17 Friday 5 September 2025
At Sea
Today’s schedule is packed with Bridge activities. We have a full day at sea to
take pleasure in the ship’s amenities.
DAY 18 Saturday 6 September 2025
London/Departure
Early this morning, we return to Dover. Following breakfast and customs
clearance, we journey to Windsor to explore Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest
and largest inhabited castle and an official residence of His Majesty the King.
Constructed over 900 years ago, the castle spans an impressive 44,593.5 square
metres. Afterwards, we will proceed to London, where we enjoy some free time
for last-minute shopping or leisurely sightseeing. Finally, we were transferred
to Heathrow Airport for our overnight flight back to Australia.
DAY 19 Sunday 7 September 2025 In Flight
DAY 20 Monday 8 September 2025 Australia
We arrive back in Australia today and the tour ends.
| Cabin | Cabin Category | Deck | Twin Fare | Single Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L | Inside | 4,5,6,7,8 | $10,990 | $14,290 |
| K | Inside | 4,5,6,7,8,11 | $11,190 | $14,390 |
| J | Inside | 1,4,5,6,7,8 | $11,490 | $15,090 |
| I | Inside | 1,4,5,6,7,8 | $11,590 | $15,190 |
| F | Oceanview | 1 | $11,790 | $15,690 |
| E | Oceanview | 1,4 | $12,190 | $16,590 |
| D | Oceanview | 7,11 | $12,290 | $16,690 |
| C | Oceanview | 1 | $12,390 | $16,790 |
| VH | Balcony (Obstructed) | 4 | $12,490 | $17,190 |
| VF | Balcony | 4,8 | $12,590 | $17,290 |
| VE | Balcony | 7,8 | $12,690 | $17,390 |
| VD | Balcony | 5,6,7 | $12,790 | $17,690 |
| VC | Balcony | 5,6 | $12,890 | $17,890 |
| VB | Balcony | 11 | $12,990 | $17,990 |
| VA | Balcony | 6,7 | $13,090 | $18,190 |
| V | Balcony | 5,6,7,8 | $13,190 | $18,290 |
| B | Suite | 8 | $13,990 | $19,990 |
| A | Suite | 4,5,6,7 | $14,190 | $20,190 |
| Included port and handling charges | $1,091 | $1,782 | ||
| Included on-board gratuities | $364 | $364 | ||
| Included air taxes as at 1 July 2024 | $290 | $290 | ||
All cabins are subject to cabin availability. Please call 1800 630 343 for fares and information on other cabin categories.
You can stay longer in London for minimal extra cost. Please contact Travelrite on 1800 630 343 for more information.
International touring can involve a considerable amount of walking and stair climbing in the places visited and it is important that all tour participants have a level of physical fitness that allows them to take part in this activity without the need of assistance from others.
Tour Operator: Travelrite International Pty Ltd (ABN 64 005817 078) is the tour organiser. The MS Nieuw Statendam is operated by Holland America and the fly/cruise arrangements are subject to the terms and conditions and general information detailed in the Holland America website www.hollandamerica.com.
Deposit and Payment: A non-refundable deposit of $1200 per passenger should be sent with a completed Travelrite International booking form that lists your requested cabin category. As soon as the booking is confirmed, (usually within 24 hours), a cruise confirmation advice will be posted to the client. The passenger must also complete Holland America cruise personaliser. Final payments are due to be paid to Travelrite International 90 days prior to the commencement of the fly/cruise. A 1.5% administration fee will be added to payments by credit card.
Cancellation Charges: * Cancellation conditions don’t apply for clients with future cruise/tour credits. Cruise/tour credits are non-refundable.
| Days prior to Departure | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|
| Over 90 days | loss of deposit |
| 90 - 61 days | 100% of full fare |
| Non appearance/no written notice | 100% of full fare |
Refunds:
The cruise is based on arrangements which do not allow
for any refunds in respect to sightseeing, accommodation, meals or
other services not utilised after the tour has commenced.
Travel Documents:
All passengers will require a valid passport.
If you are not an Australian passport holder check with Travelrite
International for visa requirements.
Travel Insurance:
Adequate travel insurance is highly
recommended to cover cruise members for the consequences
of unforeseen events during the cruise and for cancellation fees
which could result from events such as illness, accident, death etc.
Baggage:
Passengers qualify for a 23kg free baggage allowance
on flights to join or return from the cruise.
Minimum Tour Numbers:
The fly/cruise arrangements have
been made on the basis of a minimum number of passengers
travelling. In the event that less than the required number of
passengers have confirmed their booking 90 days from the date of
departure, Travelrite International reserves the right to cancel the
tour, giving a full refund of monies paid, or offer arrangements to
proceed with the tour at a modified fare.
Tour Participation:
Children under 5 years of age are ineligible on coach & cruise tours. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Passengers with disabilities are welcome on Travelrite & Cruise Offers tours provided they are accompanied by a companion capable of providing all necessary assistance, and do not require special assistance from Travelrite & Cruise Offers personnel. Travelrite and Cruise Offers reserves the right to refuse to carry anyone if it is felt the individual cannot cope with the requirements of coach & cruise tour travel and who may require services and facilities that Travelrite & Cruise Offers cannot guarantee will be available. You agree to not hold the Travelrite & Cruise Offers responsible for any decision made by any of them or any service provider to refuse to carry you, provide any facilities or accommodation to you or to provide any service to you.
Responsibilities: Travelrite International Pty Ltd (ATAS No. A10538) is the tour organiser. Travelrite International Pty Ltd, its agents, officers, affiliates, and/or suppliers of services pursuant to, or in connection with these fly/cruises, shall act only as agents in making arrangements for hotels, transportation, including transportation by ship, restaurants, or any other service and do not assume any liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, death, loss, accident or delay to person or property due to an act of negligence or a default of any hotel, carrier restaurant company or person rendering any services included in fly/cruises, or by act of God. Further, no responsibilities are accepted for any damage or delay due to sickness, pilferage, labour disputes, machinery break down, quarantine, government restraints, weather, terrorism or other causes beyond their control. No responsibility is accepted for any additional expense, omission, delays, re-routing or acts of any government authority. Baggage is at owners’ risk throughout the fly/cruise. The passage contract between the carriers concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the purchasers of this fly/ cruise and/or the passengers. The right is reserved to withdraw any fly/cruise and/or make such changes in the fly/cruises as may be found desirable or necessary for the convenience of the parties and the proper carrying out of the fly/cruise. If the tour leader is unable to lead the tour due to unforeseen circumstances, for example illness, Travelrite International reserves the right to replace the tour leader. This contract shall be construed in accordance of the laws of the State of Victoria, Australia and any legal action must be undertaken in the State of Victoria. Attention is also directed to the terms and conditions of the Holland America fly/cruise passage contract with Holland America, detailed on the back of the Holland America reservation form. If you do not have a copy of this form please contact Travelrite International and we will send one to you.
Delays And Unforeseen Events:
You engage Travelrite
International to book this tour on your behalf and you
acknowledge that Travelrite International acts as your agent for
the purpose of making contracts between you and the various
providers of accommodation, transportation and other services
that comprise the tour. Travelrite may without reference to you
provide or make available to you, or may as your agent engage
any third party to provide or make available to you, any good or service which Travelrite reasonably believes is necessary for your
benefit to maintain the tour itinerary, repatriate you or otherwise
accommodate, transport or sustain you in circumstances in which
the tour itinerary fails wholly or partly for any reason. You appoint
Travelrite International your attorney for this purpose. You agree
to pay Travelrite any cost thereof and you indemnify Travelrite in
respect of any cost it incurs in this regard. Travelrite advises you
to obtain travel insurance generally including in respect of the risk
that any such good or service may become required.
How to Book: Bookings can be made by completing a booking form and sending it with a non-refundable deposit of $1200 per person to:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd
423 Whitehorse Road Balwyn, Victoria 3103
Further information can be obtained by telephoning
Toll Free: 1800 630 343
Telephone (03) 8803 6898
Cruise info – Email Nigel: nigel@travelrite.com.au
Bridge info – Email Gary: ezeriah78@gmail.com
About Travelrite International: Travelrite International Pty Ltd (A.B.N.64 005 817 078) is a well-established travel company which has been operating in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne for more than 40 years. It is fully IATA and ATAS accredited: A10538. As such, it directly represents the major airlines of the world and all major domestic and international tour and transport operators. Travelrite International has been operating special interest tours for 30 years, and now runs over 120 tours a year. Travelrite International Pty Ltd is a full member of the Australian Federation of Travel Agents – AFTA.
“This was my fourth Travelrite tour – the courtesy and attention to detail was outstanding from the travel consultant to the tour manager. It was too hard to choose a favourite sightseeing tour as all of them were interesting and the local guides good.”
“I thoroughly enjoyed the cruise and excursions. I met so many nice people and had great confidence in our Tour Manager.”
