Terms & Conditions
PLEASE READ THIS. IT CONSTITUTES PART OF YOUR CONTRACT FOR YOUR TRIP AND ANY RELATED SERVICES. PLEASE CALL US IMMEDIATELY IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS.
Please thoroughly review the terms and conditions of Sunburst Cruises and Travel herein referred to as SCT. By booking travel and travel services through SCT, client acknowledges that they have been advised of, reviewed, and hereby accept these terms and conditions and contract for travel-related services.
BOOKING ACCURACY/LEGAL NAMES: Passenger is required to immediately review all aspects of their booking to verify (but not limited to): passenger names, mailing address, email address, telephone number, date of birth, pricing, airfare, arrival/departure airports, accommodations, and organized activities on your booking receipt. Please notify SCT immediately if any omissions and/or corrections are needed regarding the booking details. Passenger(s) voluntarily assumes full & sole responsibility for any and all risks and/or costs involved with failure to report such errors and/or omissions. Passenger is required to verify the accuracy of the passenger’s LEGAL first & last names. It is mandatory that guest names be identical to the Passenger(s) LEGAL first and last names and identical to the names as they appear on booking and travel documents.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Passenger(s) assumes sole responsibility to independently confirm all documentation requirements for all passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry and/or travel requirements of each destination. Passenger(s) assumes sole responsibility for, and hereby releases SCT from any claims or responsibility for any and all damages incurred as a result of Passenger(s) failure to comply with applicable documentation requirements, including but not limited the requirement that all Passengers procure, and have on their person the proper travel documents at all times. SCT recommends the Passenger(s) consult with the appropriate domestic and foreign governmental agencies for the current document requirements.
Suggested reference materials for passport, visa, health requirements as well as travel advisories:
For US Citizens: http://travel.state.gov
US Center for Disease Control for required vaccinations: http://www.cdc.gov/travel
*Note that this is not a comprehensive list of reference sites and is provided solely for your convenience. These sites are owned and operated by third parties who may alter the URL at any time without notice.
PAYMENTS: SCT holds reservations until “Deposit Due Date” indicated on your confirmation. If deposit/payment is not authorized by SCT on or before the Deposit Due Date, reservations are automatically cancelled. Failure to remit payments on a timely basis will automatically put your booking at risk of cancellation. Without limitation, Passenger(s) voluntarily hold SCT harmless for cancellation of any booking for either late payment or declination of a credit card.
PRICING: Prices and availability quoted by SCT are not guaranteed until deposit is fully paid. Pricing and availability may change without notice. Passenger agrees that SCT is not responsible for any errors or omissions in any quotes, advertisements, including on our website, resulting in inventory, content, or pricing discrepancies nor is SCT responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur as a result of incorrect information from third parties. Suppliers reserve the right not to honor any published prices that it determines were erroneous due to electronic, printing, or clerical error. You acknowledge this right and agree to hold SCT harmless for any actions or damages arising from Supplier pricing.
SCT reserves the right to charge Passenger(s) for any increase in taxes, fees or surcharges (i.e. fuel). Passenger(s) acknowledge this right and agree to pay any such additional taxes, fees, and surcharge.
AIRFARE:
- General Conditions Governing Air Transport
Airline tickets are highly restrictive, non-refundable, and non-transferable. Modification of passenger names, dates, times, routings, or departure/arrival airports is at the sole discretion of the airline and, if permitted, will likely be subject to a substantial change fee. Passenger is responsible for any such fees. With regard to the purchase of air tickets, SCT acts simply as an intermediary between you and the airline. Once you book a reservation, your credit card or debit card will be charged for the amount shown – regardless of whether or not the reservation is used. Credit will not be given for any unused airline tickets and cannot be used toward any future bookings.
All tickets will be issued for economy class unless otherwise specified. All travel will be round-trip unless otherwise specified. Seat assignments are subject to the airlines policies and may not be able to be made until you are at the airport on the day of departure. Airline tickets booked through SCT may not eligible to earn frequent flyer miles. You agree to confirm all bookings with the airline prior to the stated date of departure (SCT recommends confirming 72 hours prior).
Direct flights may be “non-stop” or may involve one or more stop-overs (in the latter case this means the same flight by the airline, because the flight number remains the same). The same applies to connecting flights that may be subject to crew changes. When you reserve a scheduled or charter flight involving a stop-over in a town, and the second flight takes off from a different airport to the airport of arrival, ensure that you have sufficient time for reaching the second airport. The journey to the other airport is at your own expense. SCT will not be able to reimburse you for these costs, nor will it be liable if you miss the second flight.
SCT’s responsibilities in respect to air travel are limited by the relevant airline’s conditions of carriage. The airline fulfilling your contract for carriage may change from the airline mentioned by SCT. SCT is not able to specify the type of aircraft to be used by any airline. If an airline cancels or delays a flight, you must work directly with the airline to ensure you arrive at your destination on or ahead of time. SCT will not provide any refund for Trips missed, in part or full.
- Luggage
Each airline has its own policy regarding luggage. We recommend that you check with your airline ahead of time for any weight restrictions and additional charges relating to checked baggage. You will be responsible for paying to the airline any additional charges for checked or overweight baggage, including, but not limited to, golf bags and oversized luggage. If you exceed the weight limit set by your airline, and excess weight is permitted, you must pay a supplement directly to the airline at the airport.
The airline is liable to you for the baggage you entrust to it only for the compensation contemplated in the international conventions and relevant statutes. In the event of damage, late forwarding, theft or loss of luggage, you should contact the airline and declare the damage, absence or loss of your personal effects before leaving the airport, and then submit a declaration, attaching the originals of the following documents: the travel ticket, the baggage check-in slip, and the declaration. SCT strongly recommends that you obtain an insurance policy covering the value of your items.
- Limitation of Liability for Air Transport
IN ADDITION TO THE LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY SET FORTH ABOVE, YOU AGREE THAT SCT IS NOT LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES ARISING FROM OR RELATED TO ANY AIRLINE TIMETABLE CHANGES, DELAYS, CANCELLATIONS, MISSED CONNECTIONS, MECHANICAL PROBLEMS, INCLEMENT WEATHER, SEATING REASSIGNMENTS, LOST/DELAYED BAGGAGE, SCREENING AND SECURITY DELAYS, REFUSED BOARDING OR FAILURE TO CHECK-IN PROPERLY.
ACCOMMODATIONS AND ACTIVITIES: “Accommodations” are defined as lodgings in a dwelling or similar living quarters afforded to travelers including, but not limited to, hotels, condos, quarters in cruise ships, motels, time shares, camp grounds, and resorts.
- Accommodation classifications
The number of stars attributed to the hotels and other providers of accommodations quoted by SCT correspond to a classification established as a point of reference in accordance with local standards in the host country. Please be advised that accommodations and the “star” designations may vary from country to country. The comments we make in our descriptions are based on our knowledge of the establishments and the comments we have received from customers. SCT makes no guarantee about the suitability or availability of accommodations, and if the particular accommodations sought are unavailable, we will do our best to reserve comparable accommodations, if possible. You would bear any additional costs, i.e. upgrades, etc. We reserve the right, for technical reasons, in cases of force majeure or actions by third parties, to replace the planned hotel with accommodation of the same category offering equivalent services. This would only be in exceptional circumstances and in such cases we will inform you as soon as we are aware of this necessity.
- Taking possession of and vacating your room
Policies regarding taking possession of and vacating rooms often vary by hotel and/or country, so it is your responsibility to check with the hotel ahead of time to verify the relevant policies and times. SCT is not responsible for any charges and damages resulting from your failure to timely take possession or vacate your room.
- Types of room
Room classifications and amenities may vary by hotel and/or country, so it is your responsibility to check with the hotel ahead of time to verify the specific amenities offered at the time of your stay. SCT makes no guarantee that its descriptions and photographs are an exact representation of the particular rooms offered.
- Meals
These depend on the meal plan chosen / applicable.
- All-inclusive. This includes accommodation, breakfast, lunch, dinner and normal drinks (mineral water, fruit juice, sodas, wines, local alcohol). Some alcoholic drinks may not be included and will be billed separately.
- In the case of full board or half board, drinks are not included, unless specifically mentioned in the description. In some countries drinking water is not always available, and any bottles of drinking water bought are therefore at the customer’s expense. It is necessary to comply with the all relevant rules, particularly with regard to the opening hours of the restaurant(s) or bar(s), and the places designated for the consumption of meals and drinks.
- Activities offered during your stay
An activity may not be appropriate for all ages or for individuals with certain medical conditions. SCT may not be held liable in the event of an incident or accident which is due to a lack of vigilance on your part.
It may happen that certain activities referred to in the Trip description are no longer provided by our local provider for climatic reasons, in the event of force majeure, during a stay out of the tourist season, or when the minimum number of participants required for providing a given activity is not reached (examples: group sports, children’s clubs). In the early or late season some activities may not be available, some of the facilities (restaurant, swimming pool, etc.) may be closed, or maintenance work may be in progress. As a general rule, entertainment and sports activities may vary in frequency depending on how many people are staying at the time and on climatic conditions. Particularly during the high season it is possible that the number of parasols, loungers, sports equipment, etc., are insufficient for the demand. The opening hours of bars, restaurants, and clubs, etc., may be irregular and dependent on the management of the establishment in question. You agree that SCT is not liable for activities unavailable due to any of the reasons listed above.
The sports activities offered for collective participation are often organized by outside providers. Any travel costs related to such activities are at the customer’s expense. Similarly, these activities may be withdrawn at the discretion of the organizer if there is insufficient demand. This will not give rise to any entitlement to compensation.
YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THE USE OR ENJOYMENT OF AN ACTIVITY MAY BE HAZARDOUS AND INHERENTLY RISKY, AND, TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, SCT SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY FOR ANY PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH; LOST, STOLEN, DAMAGED OR DESTROYED PROPERTY; OR OTHER LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE AND OPERATION OF THE ACTIVITY, AND ALL ACTIONS OR EVENTS OCCURRING PRIOR TO, DURING, AT OR AFTER, THE ACTIVITY.
- Infants
We ask parents travelling with infants to bring with them the appropriate food for their child, as they may not be able to find it at their destination. You may be asked to pay a charge, for example for provision of a cot and/or for heating baby food and drinks. You should request this when making your reservation, though we cannot confirm the availability of such services.
- Pregnant women
SCT advises pregnant women to consult their doctors before making any reservation, in order to confirm that it is appropriate for them participate in the Trip. You agree that SCT will not be liable for any damages arising from inability to participate in any or all of the Trip due to pregnancy or related illness and no compensation will be payable under such circumstances.
- Travelers with special needs or disabilities
If you have special needs or a disability you must call the provider of your accommodations ahead of time and verify that special needs can be met. SCT make no guarantee as to the ability of any accommodations, activity provider, or facilities advertised on its site to meet the special needs of disabled clients. SCT has no special knowledge regarding the suitability for disabled persons of any portion of any tour or activity offered. For information concerning the suitability for disabled persons for any portion of any tour or other reservation, contact the supplier directly.
CANCELLATION POLICIES: All cancellations or no-shows are subject to penalties imposed by the supplier. If you require a copy of these terms, please contact the supplier or your agent at SCT. Additionally, all booking cancellations, transfers to another Agency, or no-shows are considered cancellations and may be subject to a non-refundable $50 per person fee imposed by SCT. .
All cancellations MUST be in writing and sent to SCT by email or postal mail. Cancellations sent by any other means will not be processed. Upon making the booking, Passenger(s) hereby accept & acknowledge liability for all cancellation fees imposed by SCT and the supplier. Cancellations are posted on day that the complete cancellation documents are received by SCT so long as they are received before 5:00 p.m. Eastern time on a business day. All other cancellations will be posted on the next business day. Example: If an email is received at 6pm on Saturday – when we are closed – it will NOT be processed until the following Monday morning. There may be additional delays due to holidays. Your cancellation will be confirmed via email when processed.
TRAVEL PROTECTION: Travel insurance protection is Strongly Recommended. As your travel agent, we have a professional responsibility to recommend the purchase of travel protection to protect both you and your vacation. While we do offer coverage through certain carriers, we cannot compare all the policies or companies currently in the marketplace. This responsibility rests solely with you the customer and we advise you to do your research and find coverage that best fits your individual needs. SCT is limited to advising you of the need for such coverage.
By declining travel protection, you acknowledge and accept liability for any cancellation penalties, damages and/or out–of-pocket expenses incurred. You also acknowledge and accept responsibility for arranging and paying for any treatment in case of a medical emergency while traveling. Please note that if you decline this type of coverage, you have waived your right to this important coverage and your confirmation will note “declined” next to the travel protection section of your confirmation. If you HAVE purchased travel protection, please remember to review your confirmation for accuracy and call us immediately if you believe you have travel protection and your confirmation indicates declined. Failure to contact us will be considered waiver of travel protection.
We urge you to read your policy when it arrives as it contains important information. This information includes, but is not limited to, details on the extent of coverage and procedures for making a claim.
All requests for service under the policy must be filed directly with the travel insurance provider, in accordance with the policy terms and conditions, which you the passenger are responsible for reviewing upon receipt of your travel protection policy.
SCT is not able to give advice with regard to possible cancellations and any associated claims processing. All queries regarding cancellation, penalties, coverage should be directed to your particular travel insurance provider. Please note that the travel insurance provider may not be allowed to discuss your claim with SCT due to privacy laws (e.g. HIPAA). Accordingly, you acknowledge that SCT cannot be involved in any aspect of your claim/request for service. Passenger(s) acknowledge and agree that SCT has no control over the travel insurance provider or its coverage decisions, and as a result SCT is not responsible for and shall not be liable for policy coverage, claims processing, or the denial of any claims.
AGENT/INTERMEDIARY: SCT is simply an intermediary between the Suppliers and the public. does not own or operate any of, hotels, shore excursions, tours, transportation providers, cruise lines, vessels, airlines, travel protection companies, attractions, or other travel-related Suppliers who provide goods or services for the Passenger(s)’ trip. Passenger(s) acknowledge and agree that SCT shall not be responsible for any loss, damage, delay, inconvenience or injury to Passenger(s) or group members as a result of a breach of contract, act or omission whether willful or negligent, criminal or otherwise of any person, including but not limited to these Suppliers, their employees, agents, servants, or representatives.
Suppliers reserve the right to deviate from the direct, customary and/or scheduled route or itinerary for any reason, without limitation and without notice. Passenger(s) acknowledge and agree that SCT is not responsible for Supplier deviations, delays, cancellations, mandated overnight stays, missed connections or any other condition beyond its control. SCT is not liable for any loss due to Passenger’s gambling and is not responsible for any purchases made while on the trip.
SCT recommends that all Passengers be in good physical and mental health and have medical approval to travel. Any physical disabilities must be reported to SCT at the time of reservation upon initial booking so SCT can contact the Suppliers to investigate amenities and/or special accommodations offered. Passenger is required to provide his or her own personal or individually prescribed devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, or similar devices. If more than minor assistance is needed, Suppliers may require that the Passenger be accompanied by a companion who is capable of, and responsible for, providing such assistance. Suppliers often reserve the right to reject Passengers whose mental or physical condition may interfere with the itinerary. Passenger(s) acknowledge and agree that SCT shall be held harmless for any and all claims relating to Supplier rejection relating to mental or physical condition.
While SCT prides itself on selecting top quality Suppliers, no undertaking, guarantee or warranty is given or shall be implied as to the fitness or condition of the Supplier’s accommodations, transportation, or any food, drink, medicine, or provisions supplied. Passenger(s) acknowledge and agree that ST shall not be responsible for refunding, either fully or partially, any amounts paid due to unsatisfactory services from any supplier. In no event shall SCT be liable for any accident which occurs in hotels, in resorts, on airplanes/in airports, on buses/in bus stations, on trains/in train stations, on board a cruise ship, on tenders, on shore excursions, or during any mode of transportation encountered during the trip, resulting from equipment or any other cause. The Passenger admits a full understanding of the nature and character of the mode of transport and assumes all risks of travel, transportation and handling of passengers and baggage.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: Without limitation, Passenger(s) assume the risk of, and agree that SCT is not liable for any damages arising from or related to any act of God or public enemies, arrest, restraints of any government or rulers of people, piracy, war, revolution, pandemics, extortion, terrorist activity, threatened or actual rebellion, political upheaval, civil unrest, riots, fire, lockouts, explosion, collision, weather conditions, dangers incident to the sea, mechanical or construction failures or difficulties, diseases, local laws, abnormal conditions or developments, closure of airports/seaports/hotels/train stations, carrier or supplier logistical problems, computer problems stranding, food or water poisoning, illness, grounding, perils of the sea, rivers, canals, locks or other waters, perils of navigation of any kind, theft, accident to or from machinery, boilers, or latent defects even though existing at commencement of the trip, desertion or revolt of crew, or lost/damaged/delayed luggage.
MODIFICATION OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS: The Terms and Conditions may be amended or modified by SCT at any time without notice. It is therefore essential that you consult the Terms and Conditions prior to making each and every booking, particularly in order to ensure what provisions are in operation in case they have changed since the last time an order was placed by you.
Clients agree to be bound by the Terms and Conditions by booking travel services with SCT. Acceptance of these Terms and Conditions is automatic and written consent is not required.
SEVERABILITY: If any provision of this agreement shall be unlawful, void, or for any reason unenforceable, then that provision shall be deemed severable from this agreement and shall not affect the validity and enforceability of any remaining provisions.
HEADINGS: Headings are for reference purposes only and do not limit the scope or extent of such section.
January 4, 2021