Terms and Conditions
These Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings made with Distinctive Journeys. Please read them carefully before confirming your booking.
1. About Us and Your Contract
Distinctive Journeys acts either as a principal (organiser) or as an agent for third-party travel suppliers such as cruise lines, airlines, hotels, and tour operators.
Where we act as organiser, your booking will be protected under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018. Where we act as agent only, your contract will be with the relevant supplier and their terms and conditions will also apply.
2. Financial Protection
All monies paid to Distinctive Journeys are handled in accordance with applicable financial protection arrangements. All funds are protected and held in our designated trust account.
3. Making a Booking
A booking is confirmed once a deposit or full payment has been received and written confirmation has been issued. Please check your confirmation carefully and notify us immediately if any details are incorrect.
4. Payment Terms
Deposit amounts and balance due dates vary by supplier and will be shown on your confirmation invoice. Full payment must be received by the due date. Failure to pay on time may result in cancellation and applicable charges.
5. Prices
Prices are subject to availability at the time of booking. Occasionally, changes may occur due to factors outside our control such as currency fluctuations, fuel costs, taxes, or supplier surcharges. Any applicable changes will be advised before final payment where possible.
6. Changes or Cancellations by You
Requests to amend or cancel a booking must be made in writing. Cancellation charges will apply in line with supplier terms and may be up to 100% of the total cost. Name changes may be permitted subject to supplier approval and fees.
7. Changes or Cancellations by the Supplier
In the unlikely event of a significant change or cancellation by the supplier, we will inform you as soon as possible and offer suitable alternatives or a refund where applicable.
8. Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend that all travellers take out comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking. It is your responsibility to ensure your policy provides adequate cover for your trip, including cruise travel, medical expenses, and cancellation.
9. Passports, Visas and Health
You are responsible for ensuring you hold valid passports, visas, and meet any health or vaccination requirements. Distinctive Journeys cannot accept responsibility if you are unable to travel due to incorrect documentation.
10. Special Requests and Medical Needs
Any special requests or medical requirements should be advised at the time of booking. While we will pass requests to suppliers, they cannot be guaranteed unless confirmed in writing.
11. Complaints
If you have a complaint during your trip, please raise it with the supplier or representative immediately to allow the issue to be addressed. Any unresolved complaints should be submitted to us in writing within 28 days of your return.
12. Groups and Hosted Cruises – Additional Terms
The following additional terms apply to group bookings and hosted cruises and should be read in conjunction with the main Terms and Conditions.
12.1 Minimum Numbers
Group pricing and benefits are often based on minimum passenger numbers. If numbers fall below the required minimum, pricing, amenities, or hosted elements may be amended or withdrawn.
12.2 Deposits and Payment Schedules
Group bookings are subject to specific deposit and payment schedules set by the supplier. Deposits are usually non-refundable, and late payments may result in cancellation of the group booking.
12.3 Name Changes and Reductions
Name changes and reductions may be restricted after certain deadlines and may incur charges. Reductions in passenger numbers may affect group pricing or benefits.
12.4 Hosted Cruises
Where a hosted cruise is offered, the host provides informal assistance and coordination only. Hosts are not responsible for individual travel arrangements, supplier services, or onboard operations.
13. Governing Law
These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of England and Wales, and any disputes will be subject to the jurisdiction of the English courts.