During the day casual clothing is typical, although shorts and swimwear are not permitted in the formal restaurants. There are some nights at sea classified as formal for dress purposes. Nights in port are classified as informal. During the evening on formal nights, a dinner suit or dark suit for gentlemen and eveningwear for ladies is required for the main restaurants. Smart casual attire is required in the public lounges and restaurants.
About a third of people on the Travelrite Tours are travelling alone. There are group activities every day. The cruise is fully escorted and will be a great fun holiday. Each evening you will dine with the group at our reserved tables. You will meet a fun group of people with a shared love of gardens and have a fabulous time.
DECK
PLANS
The Queen Elizabeth is sleek and contemporary cruise ship with the most advanced technological features and luxurious art-deco style appointments. The Queen Elizabeth continues the heritage of 1930s cruising on the great Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth 2 and Queen Mary 2. The great traditions of fine service, food and entertainment continue. Enjoy the facilities of the gourmet restaurants, swimming pools, the casino, theatres, the cinema and internet access, the Health and Spa Club, seven bars and much more. Take part in the multitude of daily activities that include numerous lectures on an array of topics, the regular musical performances, ship sports and much more. A voyage on Queen Elizabeth is an experience to be savoured and remembered!
Deryn Thorpe is a fanatical gardener, passionate about communicating her love of gardening and design to others. She has been taking people on specialist garden tours for more than 25 years. She is an award winning garden journalist, writing for Gardening Australia magazine and other gardening publications. She co-presents the award-winning ‘All The Dirt’ www.allthedirt.com.au, Australia’s most popular gardening podcast with more than 1 million downloads. Deryn has edited garden books and worked as a garden TV presenter and is a regular presenter on ABC and commercial garden radio and a vivacious and popular speaker at Australian and international festivals and garden clubs. She volunteered for six years with Open Gardens Australia and opened her own beautiful, cottage-style garden to the public. She is an Honourary Life Member of the Horticultural Media Association Australia (HMAA) and the Nursery and Garden Industry WA.
VIEW ITINERARYDAY 1 Wednesday 26 March, 2025 Tokyo, Japan
Today we board our flight to Tokyo, Japan. We arrive in Tokyo later the same
day. Upon arrival we are transferred to our city hotel.
DAY 2 Thursday 27 March, 2025 Tokyo
Tokyo is the political, economic and cultural capital of Japan. There are more
than twelve million people living in Tokyo and millions more living within
a radius of fifty kilometres. We will enjoy a city tour of exciting Tokyo this
morning. We see the famous Ginza area and visit the Imperial Palace East
Garden, which is still part of the Royal Residence. It is a superb example of
traditional Japanese landscape design. We continue with a visit to Asakusa,
the heart of traditional Japan. The main attraction is Sensoji, a popular
Buddhist temple built in the seventh century. We will have time to walk
along Nakamise-dori, the bustling market area, where souvenirs and wooden
sandals are sold. Later we transfer to our city hotel and in the evening enjoy a
welcome dinner with Deryn and other tour members.
DAY 3 Friday 28 March, 2025 Tokyo
Today we visit the Omiya Museum, the most outstanding center for bonsai in
Japan. Opened in 2010, it has a collection of over 100 bonsai masterpieces.
In addition, we will see bonsai pots, miniature landscape stone, books and
woodblock print. We continue our travels to visit Koishikawa Korakuen
Gardens, built in the early Edo period in 1629, and one of the three ‘Great
Gardens’ of Japan. This traditional garden exhibits the main elements of a
Japanese garden and was named after a poem. It boasts a gorgeous pond
adjoining the tea house, a full moon bridge and man-made hills.
DAY 4 Saturday 29 March, 2025 Embarkation
This morning we visit the Hama-Rikyu-Teien garden. The landscape garden
features seawater ponds which change level with the tides and provides
gorgeous views of lakes and hills. Late morning we are transferred to the port
of Yokohama to board the Queen Elizabeth for our cruise around Japan.
DAY 5 Sunday 30 March, 2025 At Sea
A day at sea is the perfect opportunity to explore the fabulous facilities.
Options include a visit to the spa for a relaxing massage. Late morning join us
for an interesting talk by Deryn about her life in gardening and pointers on the
design features of Japanese gardens.
DAY 6 Monday 31 March, 2025 Aomori, Japan
This morning we arrive in Aomori, in the northernmost prefecture on Japan’s
main island Honshu. On our tour today we will visit Hirosaki, once the political
and cultural capital of the Tsugaru Region, the western section of present day
Aomori Prefecture. The city remains one of the culturally richest cities in the
northern Tohoku Region. We visit Seibien garden known as a National site of
scenic beauty. The garden was developed from 1902 in a traditional Japanese
style. A very unusual two story viewing structure was built in 1909. Visitors can
view the garden from the Japanese-style 1st floor or the Western-style 2nd floor.
DAY 7 Tuesday 1 April, 2025 At Sea
A day at sea. Perhaps attend an exercise class, have a swim or visit the library
to check out the large collection of books. Late morning join us for gardening
trivial pursuit. Deryn will call the questions to test your knowledge of plants
and gardens.
DAY 8 Wednesday 2 April, 2025 Sakaiminato, Japan
This morning we visit Daikon Island and Yuushein Flower Park, which
specializes in peonies, which will be in full flower during our visit. We will see
stunning peony flower arrangements by Shogo Kariyazaki a famous Japanese
flower artist, art installations and a waterfall. In the afternoon we visit the
Adachi Museum of Art and its gardens. Donated by a textile wholesaler, it
opened in 1980 and is surrounded by several lovely gardens. They include a
dry landscape garden, a moss garden, a tea garden and a pond garden.
DAY 9 Thursday 3 April, 2025 Busan, South Korea
Today we call into the port of Busan, South Korea, where we enjoy a
sightseeing tour with a local guide. We first experience the serenity of the 8thcentury Bulguksa Temple, located on the slopes of Mount Tohan. We explore
the royal tombs at Tumuli Park and visit the ancient Silla capital, Gyeong-Ju, a
place, which is UNESCO designated as one of the world’s top 10 historic sites.
This palace and artificial pond is part of Geongi National Park.
DAY 10 Friday 4 April, 2025 Nagasaki, Japan
Today we arrive in the city of Nagasaki. It is best known as the site of the
second nuclear attack on Japan during WW2. We have a sightseeing tour of
the city. We see the Peace Memorial Park, located near Ground Zero, the centre
of the blast, which is home to a beautiful memorial fountain and the 30-foothigh Statue of Peace. We will also see other parts of the city that was for 200
years Japan’s port to the outside world. This afternoon the group will walk
to the nearby Glover Gardens, where we see early European settlers’ houses
surrounded by attractive gardens.
DAY 11 Saturday 5 April, 2025 At Sea
A day at sea is the perfect opportunity to explore the fabulous facilities of
this magnificent ship. Perhaps attend one of the interesting lectures. In the
afternoon Deryn will help group members with any problems they have with
their plants, suggest alternative plantings or provide ideas (and rudimentary
sketch plans) for future garden improvements. Bring photos of your garden
and plants to make best use of her skills.
DAY 12 Sunday 6 April, 2025 Shimizu, Japan
Today we arrive at Shimizu at the base of Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain
and the focal point of the sprawling Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. This morning
we take sightseeing tour of this very special area, named for the Buddhist fire
goddess Fuchi, which is sacred to the Shinto goddess Sengen-Sama, whose
shrine can be found at the summit. Mount Fuji is the holiest of Japan’s “Three
Holy Mountains”. We travel through the Owakudani Valley and enjoy a ride on
the Hakone Ropeway’s aerial cable car. This offers amazing views of nearby
Hakone National Park, where cherry trees should be in blossom.
DAY 13 Monday 7 April, 2025 Disembarkation/ Kyoto, Japan
This morning we arrive in Yokohama. After disembarking we will travel by
Bullet train to Kyoto which will be our home for four nights. On arrival we will
have a panoramic tour of Kyoto to see the main sights including the Kyoto
Imperial Palace which is surrounded by a beautiful garden. The palace was
completed in 1855 and was home to the Imperial household from that date
until the Meiji Restoration, when they moved to Tokyo.
DAY 14 Tuesday 8 April, 2025 Kyoto
We start the day with a journey to the nearby hills to visit Jojakko-ji, a 1640
temple set in a beautiful grove of trees. The temple platform provides a
viewing space for the gorgeous garden, where we will enjoy the contrast of
the delicate pink flowering azaleas which contrast with the lush green trees
and bushes. We continue with a visit to the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as
the temple of the Golden Pavilion. It was built in the late 14th century with
three stories topped with gold leaf. It extends over a pond, which reflects
the building and is surrounded by a beautiful, landscaped garden. In the
afternoon, we will visit the Ryoanji Temple, and its famous rock garden.
Attributed to the artist Soami, it was created in the 16th century in a space
of thirty metres by ten metres. It is build in the waterless stream style and is
composed of fifteen rocks set into raked white gravel. The Zen Garden, with
its arrangement of rocks, representing mountains, and sparse vegetation, is
symbolic of an individual’s journey through life.
DAY 15 Wednesday 9 April, 2025 Kyoto
This morning we visit Ninjo Castle garden surrounding a castle built in the
early Endo period. Over 400 years it has survived many fires and earth-quakes
and the castle and the Shoin-zukuri style garden are renovated to their
former glory. We continue our day with a visit to the Silver Pavilion and the
picturesque Philosopher’s path, which extends along the river under cherry
trees, which we hope will be in blossom.
DAY 16 Thursday 10 April, 2025 Kyoto
This morning we visit the superb Zen garden at the Tofuku-ji Temple. Founded
in 1236 the gardens include an interesting Sanmon Gate and the Tsuten-kyo
Bridge, which is famous for its panoramic views of the garden. The afternoon
will be free for individual activities. We will enjoy a farewell dinner tonight to
say farewell to Deryn and other group members.
DAY 17 Friday 11 April, 2025 Departure
This morning we travel to Osaka. We will pass through Osaka’s downtown
area on the way to the Osaka Castle. Built in 1583 and destroyed just 32 years
later, the castle has undergone many reconstructions the most recent in 1931.
Its walls encompass the Municipal Museum and the Hokoku Shrine, which is
dedicated to its original owner, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Later we are transferred
to the airport for our flight back to Australia
DAY 18 Saturday 12 April, 2025 Arrival/Australia
This morning we arrive back in Australia and tour activities conclude.
| Cabin | Cabin Category | Deck | Twin Fare | Single Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IE | Inside | 4,5,6,8 | $12,290 | $15,690 |
| ID | Inside | 5,6,7 | $12,490 | $15,890 |
| EC | Outside | 1 | $12,890 | $16,390 |
| EB | Outside | 1 | $12,990 | $16,490 |
| BE | Balcony | 4,5,6,7,8 | $13,290 | $17,090 |
| BD | Balcony | 5,6,7 | $13,490 | $17,290 |
| BB | Balcony | 5,6,7,8 | $13,690 | $17,690 |
| P1 | Suite | 7,8 | $17,990 | $27,490 |
| Q4 | Suite | 7 | $20,190 | $21,390 |
| Included port & handling charges | $315 | $552 | ||
| Included ship gratuities | $144 | $144 | ||
| Air taxes as at 1 Mar 2024 to be added to fare | $210 | $210 | ||
All cabins are subject to availability. Please call 1800 630 343 for fares and information on other cabin categories.
You can stay longer in Japan for minimal additional cost. Please contact 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 assistance from others.
Tour Operator: Travelrite International Pty Ltd (ABN 64 005 817 078) is the tour organiser. The Queen Elizabeth is operated by Cunard Lines and the fly/cruise arrangements are subject to the terms and conditions and general information detailed in the Cunard Line brochure 2024. All passengers must complete the Cunard Line online check in and Travelrite International booking form.
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 confirmation advice will contain all details. Final payments are due to be paid to Travelrite International 91 days prior to the commencement of the fly/cruise. A 1.5% administration fee will be added to payments by Visa, Mastercard or AMEX card.
CANCELLATION CHARGES:* Number of days before sailing.
| Days prior to Departure | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|
| Over 91 days | loss of deposit |
| 90 days or less | loss of 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 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 AND CONDITIONS:
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 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. This
contract shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Victoria,
Australia and any action must be taken in the State of Victoria. Attention is also
directed to the terms and conditions of the Queen Elizabeth fly/cruise passage
contract with Queen Elizabeth, detailed in the Cunard brochure or on the
website. If you can’t find this contract please contact Travelrite International and
we will tell you where you can see it.
How to Book: Bookings can be made by completing a booking form and sending it with a deposit of $1200 per person to:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd
423 Whitehorse Road Balwyn, Victoria 3103
Further information or a booking form can be obtained by telephoning Travelrite International on the following numbers:
Toll Free: 1800 630 343
Telephone (03) 8803 6868
Email balwyn@travelrite.com.au
https://www.travelrite.com.au/
About Travelrite International: Travelrite International Pty Ltd (A.B.N.64 005 817 078) is a well established travel company which has been operating in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne for more than 40 years. It is fully ATAS accredited: A10538 and has a fully credited IATA offices in Balwyn. 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 38 years, and now runs over 100 tours a year. Travelrite International Pty Ltd is a full member of the Australian Federation of Travel Agents – AFTA.
“The whole tour was wonderful and the group was a good mix of personality. The gardens visited were interesting and varied.”
“Very enjoyable. Good mix of people in the group.”
