Celebrity Equinox has new amenities not available on any other Celebrity ship – you will have your expectations exceeded as soon as you step on board. Delight in the choice of ten exceptional dining venues. Enjoy craft beer and comfort food in the new Craft Social and sip refreshing frozen cocktails on the pool deck at Slush. A unique experience at sea, feel grass beneath your feet at the relaxing Lawn Club. Every imaginable comfort complimented by Celebrity’s unrivalled guest services promises an unsurpassed cruise experience no matter your destination.
Michelle has always had a love affair with textiles. She has been a part of the Australian quilting industry for the last 28 years. She started as a sample quilt maker for a fabric importer and her work was seen by magazine staff. This was the start of a long career working with Australian patchwork magazines. She writes regular columns for Quilters Companion even acting as Creative Director of the title for one year. She has presented eight DVDs’ on a wide variety of techniques and has published four books. She has designed five fabric ranges, with Cidade being the current range available in store. Michelle enjoys imparting her knowledge to students and has a busy teaching schedule. Her work has won several awards at the NSW Quilt Guild Show. She has been leading the Travelrite International patchwork tours since 2008, enjoying exploring America, France, England, Japan, Europe, Canada and Vietnam with her fellow quilters.
VIEW ITINERARYDAY 1 Sunday 8 September, 2024 Depart Australia
Today we board our flights to Rome, Italy.
DAY 2 Monday 9 September, 2024 Siena, Italy
This afternoon we arrive in Rome. After clearing customs we travel north
to the Tuscan town, Siena, where we will spend the next five nights.
DAY 3 Tuesday 10 September, 2024 Siena
This morning we will a sightseeing tour with a local guide. We will see
the magnificent Piazza del Campo, renowned for the famous Palio horse
race held in the Campo and its splendid civic tower and the enormous,
partially completed Duomo including it’s extraordinary inlaid marble
mosaic floor. Michelle will set the group up and instruct them on our
project for the tour this afternoon and later will welcome the group at
dinner to get to know group members.
DAY 4 Wednesday 11 September, 2024 Siena
Today we travel north to Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance and
capital of Tuscany. We have time to soak up the atmosphere of Florence,
the home town of Lorenzo the Magnificent and Michelangelo. We will
join a local guide for a walking tour through Florence. We will see the
cathedral, with its enormous dome, the Baptistry, Piazza Signoria and
the famous Ponte Vecchio.
DAY 5 Thursday 12 September, 2024 Siena
This morning we travel to several gorgeous towns in this region – Pienza,
the “Ideal Town of Renaissance Architecture” where we will have the
time to walk through the gorgeous town centre. We continue with a visit
to one of the most stunning towns situated in the southern region of
Tuscany – Montepulciano. On arrival we will have a guided walk in the
centre of this fascinating hilltop town and then a stop at an historical
cellar for a wine tasting of Nobile di Montepulciano. We drive through
this breath-taking valley to the nearby beautiful town of San Quirico
before stopping in Bagno Vignoni. This village has long been a favourite
among painters and travellers seeking solitude in a beautiful location.
We will have time to see Le Terme, a small family owned 15th-century
hotel, built by Rossellino as a summerhouse for Pope Pius II.
DAY 6 Friday 13 September, 2024 Siena
We travel through the Tuscan countryside to the town of San Gimignano,
known as the City of Beautiful Towers, a classic walled hill-town in
Tuscany, famous for its medieval architecture. Known for its skyline of
towers built by the feuding nobles of the 12th and 13th centuries, the
town featured in the film Tea with Mussolini. We will return to Siena for an
afternoon sightseeing or working on our projects.
DAY 7 Saturday 14 September, 2024 Embarkation
Today we travel through the beautiful Tuscan countryside to Civitavecchia
to board our ship. Be up on deck as the ship slips her moorings at 5pm
for the start of our fabulous cruise.
DAY 8 Sunday 15 September, 2024 At Sea
Today with the help of Michelle, we will have time to work on our projects.
During your free time, you might like to enjoy the fabulous facilities of the
ship including a visit to the Spa.
DAY 9 Monday 16 September, 2024 Katakolon
Today we dock in Katakolon, the gateway to Olympia and the site of the
ancient Olympic Games. We will enjoy a sightseeing tour of this historic
sight. The Ancient Greeks flocked here every four years for more than
a millennium to celebrate the sacred games dedicated to Zeus. We will
have free time around Katakolon to enjoy the seaside town with fishing
boats bobbing in the harbour and many cafes around the waterfront.
DAY 10 Tuesday 17 September, 2024 Mykonos
Today we arrive in the scenic Greek island of Mykonos. Mykonos is one of
the smallest islands of the Cyclades complex. Chora, the islands capital
is spectacular with its narrow, whitewashed streets and white cubicle
houses with their tiny balconies, coloured windows lined by bougainvillea
and posts of basilicum. Numerous little churches and chapels, hidden
minuscule piazza’s and water wells, as well as the multitude of colourful
shops makes this a fabulous place to explore at leisure. We will have a
free day to explore the quaint streets of this beautiful island.
DAY 11 Wednesday 18 September, 2024 Athens
Today we dock in the ancient city of Athens, capital of Greece. Athens is the home of the Acropolis and the ultimate in ancient Greek architectural perfection, the Parthenon, built to honour the goddess Athena and one of the wonders of the ancient world. A highlight of Athens is the Acropolis, still dominating the frantic bustle of modern Athens. We will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Athens with a local guide.
DAY 12 Thursday 19 September, 2024 Ephesus
This morning we arrive at the port of Kusadasi, now a thriving summer holiday destination, but better known as the gateway to Ephesus, one of the great ancient wonders of the world. On our sightseeing tour we will see the famous Fountains of Trajan, built to honour the emperor of the same name, and the Polio Fountain, located opposite the Domitian Temple. We visit the Temple of Hadrian, the Private House (a brothel which was part of the scholastic baths), the Library of Celsus and the Bouleuterion (a small theatre used for the meetings of the Senate). We admire the Great Theatre, which was completed by the Romans in 117 AD and has a capacity for 24,000 spectators. We continue onto the House of Virgin Mary, where she spent the last days of her life. We return to the ship late afternoon.
DAY 13 Friday 20 September, 2024 Santorini
Today we have a day to explore Santorini, known as the “Black Pearl of the Aegean”, one of the most spectacular landscapes in Greece and in the world. It offers a breath-taking view from the clifftop created by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. We will enjoy free time to explore this magnificent port.
DAY 14 Saturday 21 September, 2024 At Sea
Today with the help of Michelle, we will have time to work on our projects or enjoy free time to explore the fabulous facilities of the ship
DAY 15 Sunday 22 September, 2024 Valletta
We dock in the capital of Malta, Valletta today. It was founded by the Knights of St John in 1566. Its purpose was to strengthen the Order’s position on the island, following the siege of Malta by the Turks in 1565. Our sightseeing tour includes visits to St Johns Cathedral and the magnificent Palace of the Grand Masters. We also visit Mdina, Malta’s ancient capital and a medieval walled town situated on a hill in the centre of the island. The afternoon is available to explore the island on your own.
DAY 16 Monday 23 September, 20 At sea
Today, we will have time to finish our projects. During our free time, tour members might like to enjoy the fabulous facilities of the ship. We will enjoy a farewell drinks party to say goodbye to the ship and other tour members.
DAY 17 Tuesday 24 September, 2024 Disembarkation/Barcelona
This morning after we dis-embark the ship we will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Barcelona. Capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is the second-largest city in Spain. We will see the historic cathedral and the beautiful streets of the Gothic Quarter. We visit the modernist Eixample district and see examples of Gaudi’s stunning architecture, including a tour of the famous Sagrada Familia. This afternoon we visit to Park Guell, designed by Gaudi which is a combination of architectural and landscape features with mature and natural looking plantings. Among them is the grand iron-balustrade entrance, with its mosaic tile work on the walls and the imposing staircase dragon.
DAY 18 Wednesday 25 September, 2024 Departure
Today we travel to the airport for our flights to Australia.
DAY 19 Thursday 26 September, 2024 In Flight
DAY 20 Friday 27 September 2024 Arrive Australia
Today we arrive in Australia. Tour activities are concluded.
CABIN | DESCRIPTION | DECK | TWIN SHARE FARE PP | SINGLE FARE |
---|---|---|---|---|
I1 | Interior | 9,10,11 | $11,290 | $14,790 |
O1 | Oceanview | 3,7,8 | $11,790 | $15,590 |
V3 | Balcony (obstucted) | 6 | $11,990 | $15,990 |
V2 | Balcony | 6,7,8 | $12,190 | $16,190 |
V1 | Balcony | 6,8 | $12,290 | $16,390 |
C1 | Concierge Balcony | 9,10,11,12 | $12,690 | $16,990 |
A1 | Aqua Balcony | 11 | $13,790 | $18,290 |
Included port and handling charges | $593 | $724 | ||
Included gratuities | $242 | $1,033 | ||
Included air taxes as at 25/6/23 | $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 Europe for minimal extra 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 need of assistance from others. We are travelling to hilltop towns, which are hilly and to medieval towns with uneven and slippery cobblestones, which make it harder to walk. These towns do not have bus access to the historical centre and tour members must walk into the town centre.
Tour Operator
Travelrite International Pty Ltd, (ABN 64 005 817
078) is the tour operator.
Tour Costs
The tour costs are based on airfare, general
transport, accommodation costs and foreign exchange rate at
25/6/23. Travelrite reserves the right to alter the costs if any of
these factors change, giving any passenger that has booked
the right to withdraw with full refund of monies paid or modify
arrangements. No alterations to price will be made within 90 days
of departure from Australia.
Air Taxes
From Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane as listed in the
itinerary. Please contact us for air taxes from different cities. Air
taxes are as at 25/6/23. If they change due to government and
airline charges and currency variations, Travelrite International
reserves the right to charge additional amounts.
Deposit and Payment
A deposit of $900 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. The passenger must also complete an online Celebrity
Cruiseline reservation form and a Travelrite International booking
form. Final payments are due to be paid to Travelrite International
91 days prior to the commencement of the cruise/tour. A 1.5%
administration fee will be charged on payment by Visa, Mastercard
and AMEX .
Cancellation Charges
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 |
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to cover
the costs of cancellation fees due to illness, death in family, etc.
Minimum Tour Numbers and conditions
The tour has been
priced on the basis of a minimum number of passengers having
booked 91 days prior to departure. Travelrite reserves the right
to cancel the tour, giving a full refund of all monies paid or offer
arrangements to proceed with the tour at a modified cost.
Tour Organisation
Travelrite reserves the right to change
advertised entrances if necessary for the smooth operation of the
tour.
Refunds
The tour is based on arrangements that do not allow
for any refunds in respect to sightseeing, accommodation, meals,
airfare or other services not utilized after the tour has commenced.
Travel Documents
All passengers will require a valid passport.
Visas for countries visited are not required for Australian passport
holders. If you hold another passport please check with Travelrite.
Baggage
All passengers qualify for the 20kg free baggage
allowance.
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 legal action must be taken in the State of Victoria.
Attention is also directed to the terms and conditions of the Celebrity
Cruiseline fly/cruise passage contract with Celebrity Cruiseline,
detailed in the Celebrity Cruiseline brochure or on the website. If
you can’t find this form please contact Travelrite International and
we will tell you where you can see it.
Delays and Unforeseen Events
You engage Travelrite to book this tour on your behalf and you acknowledge that Travelrite 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 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 sending full names and
addresses of intending tour members with a deposit of $900 for
the Quilting Tour.
Travelrite International Pty. Ltd.
423 Whitehorse Road
Balwyn, Victoria 3103
Further information or a booking form contact he following:
Toll Free 1800 630 343
Phone: (03) 8803 6868
Email: balwyn@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 IATA
accredited. 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 33 years, and now runs over
90 tours a year. Travelrite International Pty Ltd is a full member
of the Australian Federation of Travel Agents – AFTA.
“One of the best tours we have ever done. Great program and lovely people.”
“Well organised tour that ran smoothly. Very impressed with Wayne Horsburgh, intelligent, talented and caring.”