Booked Guests
2024 Venice, Croatia and Sicily Luxury Cruise
Welcome
Thank you for booking our Venice, Croatia and Sicily Luxury Cruise – Your adventure will be here before you know it!
Approximately 30 days prior to the trip start date you’ll receive your personalized travel documents, confirming all of your trip inclusions and airport transfer details. Below you will find additional information to help you prepare for the adventure that lies ahead.
Approximately 60 days prior, we will set up a Facebook group page specifically for this trip.
Required Information
Before You Go
PERSONAL TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
All documentation required for this itinerary is the sole responsibility of the guest. Brand g Vacations will not be responsible for advising and/or obtaining required travel documentation for any passenger, or for any delays, damages, and/or losses, including missed portions of your trip, related to improper or absent travel documentation. It is suggested that copies of important documents, including your passport and visas, be kept in a separate place, in case the originals are lost or stolen.
Passport: A passport that is valid for at least six (6) months after your return date is required for this program.
Visas: U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need visas for countries visited. Other nationalities should consult the local embassies or consulates for visa requirements.
Travel Protection: Travel insurance is advised to participate in this program. If you have not purchased a policy already, you may do so by contacting your travel agent or Brand g Vacations. You may also get a quote and purchase a policy online from Brand g’s recommended travel insurance provider, Travel Insured International. Please be sure to carry all policy information with you during your program.
HEALTH AND MOBILITY
Vaccinations: At the time of this printing, no vaccinations are required for entering the countries visited, but it is recommended that all guests discuss available vaccinations and any other health concerns they may have with their personal physician or a travel medicine specialist.
The consulates of the countries to be visited will also provide information on vaccination requirements and/or suggestions. You may also consult your home country’s centers for disease control for their current recommendations. The CDC website in the US is https://www.cdc.gov/ .
Physical Limitations: This cruise program is active. While there will be plenty of time to relax, there is much to see and do. Many included excursions require an extensive amount of walking over cobblestone streets, and many sites have numerous steps that may be steeper and narrower than is common in the U.S. For your safety and enjoyment, we recommend that all guests be in good physical condition. Brand g Vacations at its sole discretion, reserves the right to refuse passage, or to require a current passenger to end their trip, if the passenger’s state of health or physical condition may affect their own health, safety, or enjoyment or that of other passengers.
Medical: While the ship staff are trained in basic first aid, the ship does not employ staff nurses or doctors and medical facilities are not always easily accessible during the more rural portions of the trip. Any medical expenses incurred are the guest’s own responsibility and neither Brand g Vacations nor the ship is responsible for cost or quality of medical care received. Guests should bring their medications with them. A travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses while traveling internationally is highly recommended.
Dietary Preferences: Please advise us of any special dietary restrictions at least 45 days (June 30th) prior to your departure. This information will be provided to the proper personnel, and to the extent possible within local conditions and limitations, every effort will be made to accommodate your needs. It is the guest’s responsibility to provide us with as much detail as possible concerning any medically related dietary concerns. Not all dietary requests can be accommodated, and we appreciate your understanding in this matter.
LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS
While there are no restrictions on the number of bags each guest may bring on board the ship, storage space is limited, and it is suggested that each guest bring only one checked bag. Additionally, all airlines impose restrictions on both size and weight, and many airlines restrict the number of bags per person. Each guest must check with their selected air carrier for limitations prior to departure, as luggage restrictions are subject to change. Guests who exceed an airline’s luggage restrictions may be asked by the airline to pay the airline’s overweight/oversized luggage fees.
An airline’s limitations on the weight and size of checked and carry-on baggage are usually found on their website or may be obtained by calling the airline directly. Please remember that international (over the water) and domestic (intra continental) restrictions may not be the same.
Your luggage and all personal belongings are solely your responsibility throughout the trip. Neither Brand g Vacations or the cruise line are responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage or personal belongings. Selecting a travel insurance plan that will cover lost or stolen luggage and/or personal items is highly recommended.
Please place luggage tags on the outside of all of your bags, including carry on and hand luggage, and include a copy of your contact information during the trip on the inside of your checked bags. Valuables and medication should only be packed in your carry-on bags (unless required to be placed in checked bags by your airline).
Getting There
AIRPORT SECURITY AND CHECK-IN
Please be sure to contact your airline prior to departure and verify there have been no changes to the flight number or schedule. If you have an airport transfer confirmed with Brand g Vacations, please advise of any schedule change affecting your airport pick up time.
Familiarize yourself with current airport security procedures and arrive at the airport at least two and a half (2.5) hours prior to your scheduled departure. During peak travel times, you may want to arrive three (3) hours prior to your scheduled departure time.
CUSTOMS
Most items you purchase internationally can be brought back into the US and Canada. We do recommend, however, that you check with both your home country’s customs office for current restrictions, as well as with the embassies of the countries you are visiting for any restrictions on items that may be unlawful to take outside their borders.
When you return to your home country, you should be prepared to declare everything you purchased or acquired while traveling. Many countries will ask you to complete a customs form, which will require descriptions and values of the items. These forms are easier to complete if you keep your sales receipts easily accessible. Most countries have set customs duty exemptions for both quantity and value of certain items. We suggest that you familiarize yourself with these allowances and limits prior to your travel.
HOTEL CHECK-IN/CHECK-OUT
Please be advised that most hotels do not allow check-in earlier than 3:00pm. If you arrive at the hotel before 3:00pm, you may need to wait until the room becomes available. Hotel check-out is usually no later than 11:00am. If your arrival or departure schedule does not coincide with these times, you may ask the hotel to store your luggage while you explore independently. Please note that every effort is made to ensure that your hotel room is available and ready for occupancy upon your arrival at the hotel, but this is not always possible. A short wait for your room to become available may be unavoidable. Depending on your scheduled arrival or departure, you may wish to purchase an early check-in or late check-out, or an additional hotel night, to guarantee availability of your room. Feel free to contact your travel agent or Brand g Vacations to review your arrival and departure and discuss any special check-in and/or check-out needs.
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
Guests who provided their independently arranged flight details to Brand g Vacations no later than 45 days prior (June 30th) to departure, will automatically have airport arrival and departure transfers arranged. Flight arrangements must also be made in accordance with Brand g vacations flight recommendations. Guests are responsible for checking with the airlines and providing their most up-to-date flight details. Please contact your travel agent or Brand g Vacations if you have any questions about your flight arrangements.
Arrival Transfers are provided from Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) to your independently booked hotel or the ship.
Departure Transfers: At the end of the cruise you will be transferred from the Atlas World Traveler to Malta International Airport (MLA) in time for your Independently arranged flight. Guests who booked additional nights’ accommodation will be transferred to their hotel in Malta. No further transfers will be provided.
TRAVEL DELAYS
If you experience a travel delay while still in your home country, after working with your air carrier to revise your flight schedule, please contact Brand g’s Office at 952-405-9309 to advise us of your revised arrival date and time. If the line is busy or you are calling outside of general business hours, please leave a message.
If you have already departed your home country, please contact your local staff and Brand g host at the numbers provided in the Emergency Contact section of this page.
If you purchased travel insurance that covers flight delay and cancellation expenses, you will also want to contact your travel insurance company to start a claim for expenses incurred during your delay. If the delay is serious enough that you will miss the starting point of your cruise, any additional hotel, and/or flight arrangements necessary to meet your group will be at your expense.
BAGGAGE DELAYS
Baggage delays unfortunately occur from time to time, especially during peak travel periods. If you discover any bag did not make it to your destination, do not leave the airport baggage area without completing a Lost Baggage Report with your air carrier. This report is essential to the tracking of your claim. If you have an airport transfer scheduled, and are traveling with a companion, we recommend that one person exit the baggage claim area and locate the representative to inform him or her of the situation. This will allow the representative to ensure that the transfer is properly provided. Give the air carrier a copy of your travel itinerary, along with the hotel and ship contact information. Report your lost baggage to your Brand g Vacations Tour Leader and provide them with a copy of your Lost Baggage Report. Brand g Vacations is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and/or personal belongings. Selecting a travel insurance plan that will cover lost or stolen luggage and/or personal items is highly recommended.
Trip Information
PROGRAM STAFF
A Brand g Vacations Tour Leader will be with you during your travel program to handle all the details, leaving you to relax and enjoy your vacation.
CONTACTING HOME
The ability to stay in touch with friends and family is an important part of travel, and many guests choose to bring cell phones on the trip. International roaming charges can be expensive, and it is advisable to contact your domestic carrier to determine the charges and plans available for each country you are visiting, then select the best available plan for your expected usage. In some countries, SIM cards are available for purchase that can be used in an unlocked phone (call your carrier to determine if your phone is, or can be, unlocked), providing a local number that can be used both locally and internationally, usually at a significantly lower rate.
Making international calls from hotels is possible, but costly. Connection fees are usually applied, in addition to other call charges.
INTERNET ACCESS
The Atlas World Traveller offers complimentary internet and Wi-Fi access.
CURRENCY AND MONEY MATTERS
The official currency used in Italy, Croatia and Malta is the Euro. The currency used onboard the World Traveller is the Euro. The ship operates on a ‘cashless’ system and all charges are billed directly to each guest’s onboard account. While onboard, guests will sign for all purchases and pay their charges at the end of the cruise in Cash (Euros only) or with a credit card; cards accepted are American Express, MasterCard, and Visa. Credit cards will be charged in Euros. Debit cards cannot be accepted for settling the onboard account.
ATMs: connected to bank networks such as PLUS or Cirrus are widely available in most major metropolitan areas, airports, city centers, and some hotels. Fees for transactions vary. ATMs are not available onboard the ship and may be limited in the smaller towns and villages. Your bank can tell you which network your ATM card can access, and whether a debit or credit card must be used. It is also recommended that guests bring an overseas contact number for your bank or credit card company in case you require assistance while traveling.
We recommend that you change or withdraw enough local currency while in larger cities, as ATMs and banks may not be readily available in some of the smaller towns along the itinerary. Also, we recommend that you not carry bills in large denominations, as many merchants are hesitant to accept them due to counterfeiting. Local banks can break the larger bills into smaller denominations for you.
Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards internationally. American Express is accepted at most major hotels and large vendors. Smaller vendors and particularly restaurants may not accept American Express for payment. Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, and American Express cards are all accepted onboard.
There may be some stores or locations where cash is preferred (especially for small purchases) or where a card cannot be used for purchases. We recommend bringing at least one major credit card as well as an ATM card that is both a debit and credit card.
Please contact your bank and/or credit card companies to let them know that you will be leaving the country to avoid any problems using your credit or debit cards overseas.
GRATUITIES
Optional Gratuities for the included components of this program have been pre-paid. You are welcome to provide additional tips at your discretion.
SMOKING
On the ship, smoking is allowed only in designated areas on open decks. We ask everyone to refrain from smoking while on excursions.
ELECTRICAL CURRENT
All rooms on the ship include both 110/220v outlet, as well as a USB port.
The voltage in hotels is 220v, European Standard. To use any electrical products from the US or Canada you will need a plug adaptor and any device that is not dual voltage will require an electrical converter. Many electronic devices have built-in electrical converters, however, please check the manufacturer’s specifications for specific details.
EXCURSIONS
Your tour program includes comprehensive shore excursions led by a local English-speaking guide; these excursions have been designed to provide you with the best possible experience. Excursions vary in difficulty level. Specific excursion information can be found in the daily itinerary. Your Brand g Vacations Tour Leader will provide details on each day’s excursion(s) and timing. Should guests be concerned about any aspect of an excursion, please inform your local guide or Tour Leader.
ETIQUETTE
Some temples, Churches, Mosques, and other tourist attractions may require a dress code. If you plan to bring a cell phone or tablet on excursions, please ensure it is set to “silent.” Guides will alert you when photos and/or flash photos are not allowed.
FACILITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
Most host hotels are fitted with elevators for guest use however some rooms may have to be reached via stairs. The ship has elevators however, embarkation/disembarkation facilities may also be difficult to navigate with wheelchairs or walkers. The cruise line does not accept guide or support dogs. Electric mobility scooters or any other mobility mechanical devices are NOT permitted for use on the ship.
Some of the places we visit on this itinerary are not handicapped accessible. Please note: the American with Disabilities Act does not apply in Europe and accessibility to some sights may be limited for those with mobility impairments. Excursions may involve walking over uneven ground and some excursions are walking tours only. For your safety and enjoyment, we recommend that all guests be in good physical condition.
At its sole discretion, Brand g Vacations reserves the right to refuse passage, or to require a passenger to end their trip if the passenger’s state of health or physical condition may affect their own health, safety, and enjoyment, or that of other passengers.
SECURITY
In the countries in which we operate, pickpockets are not uncommon, and caution is encouraged. When sailing, please lock cabin doors, reducing the opportunity for theft. Cabins are fitted with safes for personal use. Brand g Vacations cannot be held liable for loss of money, jewelry, or other valuable items from the ship, from a hotel, or while on an excursion ashore during a voyage. A travel insurance policy will typically cover most incidents of loss or theft.
WATER
Drinking water is provided in your stateroom for your comfort.
WEATHER
Weather forecasts are widely available on the Internet, and some of the favorites for large, international cities are www.weather.com and www.cnn.com/weather.
Average temperatures
Venice, Italy: 62/84 degrees F
Dubrovnik, Croatia: 64/82 degrees F
Malta: 72/90 degrees F
WHAT TO BRING
Travel Essentials: The following items are essential for any destination: sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, rain coat and umbrella. It is recommended that you bring; Electrical convertor and adaptors, duplicates of prescription eyewear, copies of prescriptions for any medications (generic equivalents are usually easier to obtain), copies of credit card information, and copies of your passport information pages and visas.
Clothing: Sport jackets and cocktail dresses are not needed at any time during this program; however, you may wish to pack a few nicer outfits for evening meals or nights out on your own. Comfortable, sporty, casual clothing is appropriate both on shore and on board. A mix of shirts, everyday slacks/pants, skirts/dresses, and walking shorts are appropriate for both land and cruise. Early mornings, late evenings, and air-conditioned spaces may also require a light sweater.
Footwear: Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, with good ankle support, are highly recommended, as there is a significant amount of walking on many excursions.
Party Themes: Don’t forget to pack your hometown Welcome Party T-Shirt that shows Fellow guests where you are from.
Ship Amenities and Services
WORLD TRAVELLER
World Traveller, a yacht-style ship designed for a highly personalized and all-inclusive experience. Designed with a 1940s aesthetic inspired by the new millennium, she’s a modern classic. Complete with comfortable accommodations, globally inspired gourmet cuisine and unlimited premium beverages, and an onboard life that cultivates connection with yourself and fellow travelers, she is made for you to explore your world in relaxed luxury.
Launched in late 2022, World Traveller is equipped with the latest hybrid power management and propulsion system, maximizing fuel efficiency and consuming as low as one-fifth the fuel compared to conventional cruise-ship systems.
SOCIAL SPACES
ATLAS LOUNGE 11:30 AM – Close
Amid the vintage style of décor this bar offers a relaxed space for Brand g Signature Entertainers performance or a pre dinner cocktail.
THE DOME 2:00 PM – Close
Relive the day’s adventures with like-spirited explorers as you stargaze with 270-degree and overhead views with drinks in hand. Sip on a craft beverage as you admire the views of your bucket-list destination. See you Brand g Signature Entertainers and dance the night away.
DINING
Offering different dining choices onboard, experience world-class, globally inspired gourmet cuisine with our always-included onboard dining that offers extraordinary culinary adventures.
LISBOA RESTAURANT
Breakfast Buffet and table service 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM
Lunch Buffet and table service 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Dinner Table Service 9:30 PM (last entry 9:00 PM)
This main dining venue, Lisboa, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily with an array of delectable fare, including their special ALMA menu featuring homestyle Portuguese dishes just like grandma makes. Features indoor and outdoor seating.
PAULA’S PANTRY 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Stop by the cozy café for a grab ‘n’ go snack or breakfast, including muffins, doughnuts, boost drinks, specialty teas and La Cimbali, fresh- pressed coffees. Or for a midday snack, choose from sandwiches, wraps and salads.
THE DOME OBSERVATION LOUNGE 2:00 PM – Close
Remember to look up or take in the 270-degree window views after your day of exploring while enjoying a wide selection of teas and a delectable spread of finger sandwiches, cookies and more.
IN-ROOM DINING 24Hr
Enjoy breakfast in bed or tapas from the “always available” menu with room service delivered to your balcony or solo accommodations. As part of our suite extras, when you book a suite enjoy full room service dining and beverage service.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Some of the most remarkable journeys are the ones taken inward. Throughout your voyage, take the time to relax and stretch as well as challenge yourself and keep up with a workout routine.
FITNESS STUDIO
Outfitted with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, our Fitness Studio gives you the tools you need to keep your body at peak strength.
SEASPA BY L’OCCITANE
Pamper yourself with an optional, signature treatment from SeaSpa by L’OCCITANE. Sink into total relaxation with a massage or simply sit and breathe within the heat of the sauna.
JOGGING TRACK
Take a lap or two at the jogging track on the top deck, complete with breathtaking horizons and exercise stations located throughout.
POOL, HOT TUBS & SUN DECK
Feel free to take it slow with a dip in the pool or at one of our two hot tubs. Catch the rays of the sun with an easy morning or afternoon on the sun deck. Find serenity during a yoga session with a view of the horizon. The choice is yours.
SHIP FACTS
- Cruise Line: Atlas Ocean Voyages
- Year Built: 2022
- Class: ice-strengthened expedition ship
- Passengers (Max Occupancy): 200 Passengers
- Crew: 117
- Cabins: 98
HEALTH AND HYGENE
As part of a commitment to a clean, safe, and healthy onboard environment, and in line with COVID-19 regulations. To assist in this important matter, the ship kindly asks all guests to wash their hands frequently and to consistently use the hand-sanitizer machines when entering the ship and when entering the restaurant. The machines are located just inside the main entrance to the ship and at the entrance to the restaurant.
LAUNDRY
Laundry service is available on board. In each stateroom you will find a sheet of services you can use while on board. There is no self-service laundry facility.
Moving About the Ship: As the ship is often in motion, and the decks are sometimes slippery, please take care when moving about the decks. Stairs may be steeper than you are used to, and it is best to always use the handrails.
VISITORS
Visitors are generally not permitted onboard the ship and are not allowed to join any shore excursions. Please make arrangements to meet your friends and relatives onshore.
Contact & Emergency Information
Closer to departure we will provide you with a comprehensive list of emergency contact details for you and to share with your friends and family.
Facebook Group
If you’d like to connect with your fellow travelers before the program, we encourage you to join our private Facebook Page. Click the link or scan the QR code with your phone. Please allow 48 hrs for admins to approve your request to join.