Your cruise-only deposit is non-refundable. However, we do offer deposit protection, which means your cruise-only base deposit can be used toward a future Trafalgar cruise or tour within the next five years.

If your booking is confirmed, you will have received an invoice shortly after booking both for your cruise deposit and/or for where you’ve paid in full. Please always check your junk, spam or promotions folder.

For any additions and changes to your booking, including any payments made, we will send you an updated invoice. Please always check your junk, spam or promotions folder.

For cruises departing in 2026, full payment is due 120 days prior to departure. For cruises departing in 2027, full payment is due 90 days prior to departure. All payment dates and amounts will appear on your invoice once you’ve booked. Please note, deposit and full payment terms may vary for special offers. Please familiarise yourself with our full Booking Conditions.  

The payment process will depend on how you booked your river cruise and there are a few ways you can make payments.    

If you booked with directly with Trafalgar:  

• You can Call Us and we’ll send you a one-time secure payment link via email or we can take your payment over the phone.   

If you booked with a Travel Agent:  

• Contact your Travel Agent to make payments for your tour directly through them.   

We accept the following payment methods:  

• Credit/debit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Maestro, and Discover

Due to global immigration and security regulations, this form must be fully completed and submitted by the time of final payment. Without it, we can’t issue your travel documents. Every guest is required to complete this form.

It is recommended that all guests purchase travel insurance.   

Your insurance should include coverage for trip interruption, personal injury, medical expenses, and evacuation and repatriation, even during pandemic events. You can purchase this at the same time you book your trip, and this will be automatically added to your booking. Learn more on our Travel Insurance page.

If you forget to book insurance, learn more about your options on our Travel Insurance page.

Yes, you can review your options on our dedicated Travel Insurance page.

Prepare for a variety of weather conditions depending on your travel season and the regions through which you will be cruising. Layering is always your best approach, allowing you to comfortably adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day, including those onboard and ashore. 

Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket (preferably hooded) or a heavier-weight windbreaker for cooler temperatures. 

Comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear is suitable both onboard and onshore. For warmer temperatures, lightweight, breathable fabrics that can be layered work well. For early spring and late fall departures, heavier cotton or wool tops, long-sleeved shirts and pants are perfectly appropriate. 

You will participate in a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during your time ashore. For your comfort and safety, we recommend comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support. Sturdy sandals are another good option. 

For evenings, resort-style attire is perfectly suitable; however, we do ask that shorts not be worn to dinner.  

During your trip, you will be supplied with Vox Tour Guide Systems, which will let you hear your Local Specialist during selected experiences. We supply a one Vox in-ear earphone, but we recommend you bring a personal set of earphones with an Auxiliary Audio Cable. This will ensure you have the sound quality which suits your preferences.  

Due to limited storage space onboard ships and motorcoaches, guests are asked to bring one (1) suitcase and one (1) carry-on bag per person, excluding purses. Additional fees may be assessed onsite for excess baggage. Note that your suitcase will be stored under your bed onboard the ship, so we suggest your main hold luggage/case does not exceed 76cm x 45cm x 25cm (30” x 18” x 10”). In some destinations there are health and safety restrictions around how much weight Crew Members and Drivers are able to lift, therefore a maximum of 23kg (50lbs) weight restriction is strictly enforced.   

Airline restrictions with hold or hand luggage:  
Airline baggage regulations vary by carrier and are subject to change. Each guest is responsible for confirming baggage weight, size, carry-on allowances and any applicable fees directly with their airline prior to travel. Be sure to check regulations for both international and domestic flight segments, as allowances may differ. 

Guests are responsible for their baggage and personal belongings at all times. Trafalgar is not responsible for loss, theft or damage. A Travel Protection Plan covering lost, stolen or damaged baggage is strongly recommended. 

Porterage is included for your luggage upon arrival at the ship for your main hold luggage/ bag (one item per person).

Electrical current onboard is 220V (European standard), and each stateroom and suite includes one 110V outlet. We suggest you bring a multi-port USB charger, for charging multiple phones, tablets, and cameras from one outlet. Electrical plugs, voltage and outlets differ throughout the world. Trafalgar do not supply travel adaptors for guests. We recommend bringing a universal travel adaptor.

Packr and PackPoint will give you great packing tips based on forecasted weather. Weather Channel or Accuweather are the most popular weather apps to keep up to date with the local weather of the places you will go.  
 
Duolingo will have you covering off the basics of a local language for just 5 minutes a day. Google Translate is great for quick translations.

All children and young people under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult who will be responsible for their supervision and welfare throughout the duration of their river cruise.   

Our deck crew are unable to provide individual dedicated care for younger guests. This includes providing babysitting services or supervision while exploring the amazing destinations and venues throughout your itinerary. 

Some countries have established practices to prevent international abductions of children and because of this, it is recommended that you secure a “Child Travel Consent” prior to departure if you are travelling with a minor who is under 18 years of age. This documents that a minor has permission from his or her parent(s) or guardian(s) to travel and may be requested by authorities and officials when a child is travelling internationally: With one parent or guardian; Without a parent; Alone; With an adult who is not a parent or guardian. If the travelling parent has sole custody, he or she will require a notarised true copy of a court order or equivalent proving custody. If both parents have custody, or the non-travelling parent has custody, the travelling parent will need notarised consent from the non-travelling parent. We recommend that you contact relevant consulates and airlines for additional information and guidance.

Each guest has differing budgets when they travel. However, when preparing your travel budget, we suggest that you consider the below:  
 

• Budgeting for any Optional Experiences you may plan to do when you’re on your river cruise. These will be available to purchase onboard from your Experience Director. 

• Drinks onboard that are not included. 

• Shopping you may like to do at your own cost. 

• Gratuities for your Experience Director and Experience Manager, Local Guides and any incidentals such as items from the gift shop and so on. 

This is entirely your decision. For ease and convenience, Trafalgar offers a cashless onboard environment. All onboard charges are billed directly to your onboard account. If you do plan to purchase local currency before you travel, we suggest that you request notes of smaller denominations as many local stores may not be willing to accept the higher ones. 
 
While most major credit cards including Visa, or MasterCard are generally accepted by shops and hotels worldwide, you may find that there is a minimum charge for using them.  

Gratuities for the shipboard crew (porters, housekeeping, wait staff etc.) are included during your river cruise package.  

For other personnel, we recommend the following guidelines:

Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your river cruise. Please note that obtaining visas can take a long time, so it is strongly advised that you consult your Travel Agent and the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas you require and how to obtain them.

Trafalgar is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your river cruise. Trafalgar is also not responsible for denial of any visa applications and requests. Trafalgar is not responsible for any visa issues upon arrival at your destination.

There are a number of helpful sites including Visa Central that can provide up-to-date information about visa requirements.  

Trafalgar is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required for your river cruise. Trafalgar is also not responsible for denial of any visa applications and requests. Trafalgar is not responsible for any visa issues upon arrival at your destination.  

Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:  

Europe River Cruises 
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their river cruise and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday. 
 
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time. 
 
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland transiting travellers 

From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel. It costs £16 and is valid for 2 years. 

For more information, read our helpful ETA page. For all other entry requirements please check with your nearest consulate. 

USA transiting travellers 

US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel. ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website. 

You’ll receive all final river cruise/tour and air documents between 21 and 30 days prior to your departure, provided that you have sent a completed Passenger Information Form and your booking is paid in full. All documents are sent electronically.

It is important that you research the rules around taking your medication to your destination country and what proof of treatment you’re expected to bring with you. Not all countries have the same regulations, and Trafalgar is unable to do this on your behalf.   

If you are taking medication or suffer from any form of illness, ensure you have enough medication for your entire trip (including extra in case of any delays) before departing for your holiday. 

Medication Essentials 

• Pack enough medication to last your entire trip, plus a few days extra in case of any unexpected delays. 

• Ensure all prescriptions are up-to-date, and in original packaging. 

• Carry medications in your carry-on bag with copies of your prescription paperwork in case of lost or delayed checked luggage. 

Airport Security & Medications 

• Liquid restrictions at airports do not apply to medications but it is important that you check with your local Airport and Airline in advance of travel.  

• You may carry necessary medication on board as long as you have proper documentation which needs to be obtained before you leave home.  

Country-Specific Regulations 

• Research medication rules for your destination country, as regulations vary.  

• For official medication regulations, check with the country’s embassy or government health website. 

Over-the-Counter Medicines onboard  

• Over-the-counter medicines, like paracetamol, are not available onboard the ship. 

• Your Experience Director can guide you on where to purchase these if needed when you’re on your land excursions.  

Medication requiring refrigeration 

• Please note that we will always try our best to meet requirements for refrigeration of medication, but due to factors outside our control this might not always be possible. It is essential that you Call Us before you travel to request your specific requirements form and outline any requirements you have so our team can review before you travel.   

If you have any dietary or health-related issues that might affect you during your travels please Call Us to let us know before you travel or at time of booking.  

Consult your doctor before travelling to check if vaccinations or other health precautions are needed. While most destinations do not require mandatory vaccinations, requirements can change - always check before your trip. Check official guidelines for your destination and comply with all health and entry requirements.

Use of mobility devices such as wheelchairs, walkers or scooters for shore excursions or onboard use must be approved in advance at this needed to be advised at time of booking using our Specific Requirements form. If you need assistance during the trip, we recommend travelling with a companion who can support you. Our onboard team and local staff cannot provide services such as pushing or carrying wheelchairs. If you did not advise Trafalgar of any specific requirements in regard to mobility at time of booking, please contact your Travel Agent or Call Us prior to your departure so that we can advise the ship ahead of your arrival. 

Some shore excursions may involve walking over uneven surfaces or navigating steps. If you have mobility limitations, certain sites may be more challenging to access. A reasonable level of fitness will help you enjoy your trip comfortably and confidently. 

If you have any special dietary requirements, advise your reservations agent or Travel Agent at time of booking or before you travel so we can share the details with our local teams. We’ll do our best to accommodate your needs, though options may vary depending on what’s available locally. 

Guests are responsible for providing detailed information regarding medically related dietary concerns. Not all requests can be accommodated, and we appreciate your understanding. 

If you need to change or cancel your river cruise, you’ll need to call us or your Travel Agent. If your river cruise is departing within the next 48 hours, please call us as soon as possible.  

Any requested changes and cancellations to your river cruise and flights will be subject to pricing and availability and applicable fees depending on your booking. Please note that airlines have separate policies and charges and additional amendment fees may apply.  

Any fees related to requested changes and cancellations to your river cruise and flights will be subject to different pricing and availability and applicable fees depending on your booking. Please note that airlines have separate policies and charges, and additional amendment fees may apply.  

If you need to change your name at any point, you will need to Call Us to speak to one our Travel Experts who can facilitate changing your details on your reservation. If you booked your airfare through us, we will advise the airline on your behalf.  

Please note that any name changes are subject to airline rules and fees.  
 

Bookings to other guests are non-transferrable and any applicable cancellation fees would apply. Any new guests are treated as a new booking.

Your departure 
Generally, check-in times require guests to arrive at the airport a minimum of two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight. Please allow enough time to get to your flight – be aware that during busy travel periods or at airports with heightened security, you may experience longer queues. 
 
Airport check-in 
All guests including children must have a machine-readable passport valid for six months after your trip return date along with any applicable visas. When you travel internationally, you are responsible for ensuring you have the correct documents to enter and pass through any countries during your trip and then make your way back home. 
 
Airport security 
Before flying, you will go through airport security. Restrictions on what you can take on board and in hand luggage vary from time to time and from country to country, so we recommend you read the latest security advice before travelling. Please remember that although all airports must adhere to relevant aviation security requirements, security procedures may vary from airport to airport. More information can be found on the website of the airport you are flying from. 

Your Driver will be waiting for you at the scheduled time to take you to your starting hotel. Full details on where to meet your driver, the pickup time, and a contact number in case of any issues can be found in your Travel Documents, usually sent 21 days/ 3 weeks before departure. 

When you book your flights with Trafalgar, we’ll arrange group transfers between the airport and your ship or hotel on the first and last day of your trip, provided your flights meet our transfer guidelines. This allows you to begin and end your journey with ease, knowing the logistics are taken care of.

If your flight schedule falls outside our transfer guidelines, you will need to make your own transportation arrangements. Private transfers may be purchased at an additional cost. 

If you’re arranging your own flights, you can still purchase group or private transfers up to 45 days before departure—as long as your flight details meet our transfer guidelines and payment is received. 

To add a transfer to your booking, Call Us to speak to one our Travel Experts or contact your Travel Agent.

If you have pre and or post river cruise extension booked with Trafalgar: 
If you have booked pre or post river cruise extension package through Trafalgar, your airport transfers are included. 

If you’ve got other plans, and plan to meet at the ship:  
If you're making your own way to the ship, we recommend calling ahead to confirm the docking location, as it can change at short notice. You'll find the ship’s phone number on your river cruise/tour ticket within your Travel Documents. 

Find more information on port location details.

Optional Experiences are additional add-on experiences that are booked and paid for when you are on your cruise. As Optional Experiences are not pre-bookable, this allows you the flexibility to pick and choose what you feel like when you’re on your trip. For ease and convenience, Trafalgar offers a cashless onboard environment. All onboard charges are billed directly to your onboard account.

To check what you’ll be getting up to in your arrival destination, please visit your tour itinerary to see what’s in store. And our The Real Word Travel & Lifestyle Magazine has plenty of articles and suggestions for many cities we visit across the world.  

On embarkation day, please make sure you arrive at the port no later than two hours before the ship’s scheduled departure time. This allows for a smooth boarding process and ensures you’re comfortably settled before sailing. 

Your vessel will be available for boarding from 11am, but please keep in mind that while the ship is being prepared for departure, most onboard facilities - including staterooms and suites – will not be available until after 3pm. Once everything is ready, you’ll be able to access your accommodations and start enjoying your time on board. 
 
Should you arrive before 3pm, baggage may be left with the Front Desk, and guests are welcome to relax in the lounge or explore the surrounding area. Hand luggage must be kept with you at all times.

Trafalgar welcomes guests from all over the world to have an amazing, shared river cruise experience. While we can’t share details of who you’ll be traveling with and how many people are on your cruise in advance, you can see each of our fleets average guest numbers on your dedicated Ships pages.  

Please use the ‘Chat Now’ function at the bottom of the homepage to speak with one of our 24/7 team or Call Us.