@jaqueline..Why would you book 3 times with a company that cancelled twice? In reality, many of these statutes are seldom enforced. Solo senior traveler in Kathmandu: A bad idea? Great! I'm glad you opened a complaint with the Attorney General. Let us know how things work out! A friend of mine got a refund in 4 days from Gat We are currently notifying impacted travelers. Here are my strategies for advocating your case. As a reminder, you can always view your journey information and make payments via My Portfolio. We receive regular complaints about food poisoning on cruise ships. Why? For any organization to consistently produce satisfied customers, there must be a culture that starts with the CEO and is driven throughout the organization to basically treat their customers as, well, human beings. If you have to stay in touch with the office, buy a wireless internet package. Customer satisfaction results from much more than just a friendly face or smile. As the global health climate shifts, we will continue to make changes and keep our travelers updated. In Hawaii, consumers have the right to a cash refund (minus previously disclosed cancellation fees) within two weeks of requesting one. I would say it is a gamble. Youre dealing directly with the cruise line, so the company cant blame an intermediary for anything that goes wrong. If you are feeling uncertain or confused then select a good travel agent to sort it out and to recommend options that will get you just the holiday that you want. Robbery, assault and homicide happen on cruise ships. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. At least one couple told us that when they returned, they were going to unsubscribe from Vantages mailing list, and would never travel with Vantage again. Your stateroom is a place to sleep. However, we ask that you please do not call Vantage at this time. Not sure what your looking for but a good company. Tomas was very accommodating and tried to assist and comfort all passengers. One Company Refused to Refund Travelers More Than $100,000, https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/25/travel/coronavirus-refunds-overseas-adventure-travel.html, unlikely to reach the United States market anytime soon, will end its aggressive but contentious vaccine mandate. We appreciate your ongoing understanding in this challenging time. When something goes wrong, someone should always be there for you. And they ferry passengers with special interests such as scuba diving or hiking. (Its all taken care of.) This PayPal invoice scam almost got me. The right to transportation to the ships scheduled port of disembarkation, or the passengers home city, in the event a cruise is terminated early due to mechanical failures. A porter will deliver it to your room. Thank you for being part of the Vantage family. As we continue to navigate this global health crisis, weve all been required to change our lives and exercise increased flexibility. Thank you again for your ongoing loyalty to Vantage. Translation: When they cancel your trip, they are legally required to offer you the money back. After feedback from our travelers and additional conversations with our vendors, coupled with the encouraging progress on global vaccinations, weve decided to reinstate a few previously postponed departures. And cruise lines dont like to do that. Care for a soda? Gloria, did you read the other thread? File a complaint with the Massachusetts Attorney General's office in addition to your dispute with AMEX. "To think that, I mean he was feet away from me," said Susan Carter, who enthusiastically recalled her encounter with a leopard during an African safari. Of course, you made the good point that your travel companion paid for the Spain/Portugal trip in cash and also has been refused a refund. Here are some of the risks. Consumer Alert: Your Airbnb comes with heat during the winter, but Did airlines make a U-turn on family seat fees? We have not had any reports of passengers with COVID being forcibly removed from a ship recently. Suggestions for finding a *safe* Travel Buddy. How much of a cut does the cruise line take? If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The cabin is for sleeping. Its not like its a week later, its a year later.. My point being, a luxury yacht it was not. I know many of you are ready to get back out there and continue your explorations. To determine if my hunch was correct, I reached out to O.A.T. If only it were that easy. How are they allowed to keep my money? There are new cruise lines, new ships, and new routes this year. Better late than never. The high seas can be dangerous, and not just in the movies. We are currently in the process of contacting all impacted travelers. About Vantage: Vantage Group Holdings Ltd. (Vantage) is a re/insurance partner designed for the future. I told them that I had a medical condition and did not know when or if I would be able to travel, and asked whether they were just going to keep my $17,500 if I couldnt travel by the end of 2021. We assist individuals with consumer-related issues; we cannot assist on cases between businesses, or cases involving family law, criminal matters, landlord/tenant disputes, labor issues, or medical issues. Your ticket contract, the legal contract between you and the cruise line, spells out your rights. All three were very ill and had high fevers around 103.5, bacterial contamination and dehydration. If, for example, youre taking your extended family on an anniversary cruise, youll probably want to find a cruise specialist with experience dealing with large groups. Our Customer Service Concierge continues to experience a high volume of calls, resulting in unusually long wait times, and we are prioritizing impacted guests. We are either rebooking travelers on another trip or providing a refund. Since mid-March, she said, O.A.T. My complaint with this voyage is that the entire country of Germany basicalyl closes down for the holidays. 1Is cruising safe?What kind of cruise should I take?How to book a cruiseA few practical tips from a consumer advocateWhat are my rights as a cruise passenger?Whats the international cruise line passenger bill of rights?If my cruise is canceled, am I entitled to a refund?Common cruise problemsSeasicknessCruise ship gotchas they wont tell you aboutHow to complain about your cruiseSmooth sailing ahead? If you need help with any problem,please contact us through this form. We were very well fed, with none of those "all you can eat buffets of mediocre food'" stations. Dont let this be you. Earlier this year when we postponed our journeys, we made that decision with the health of our travelers and dedicated associates in mind. Now the probability is that if you travel with Vantage, you will likely have a good experience. Thats not entirely true. They also dont work. Founder & Chairman Many of their phone agents are located in overseas call centers. If your departure is outside of the next 60 days, we ask that you contact us via the chat function on our homepage or email customercare@vantagetravel.com. But in travel-crazy 2022, Vantages claim that pushing off your One thing leads to another, and the next thing you know, a passenger is standing at the dock with the ship steaming off into the distance. After more than 12 months, there are new signs of hope. trips and has been pressuring the company to comply with the states travel-seller laws. If you havent heard from us yet, you will shortly. Also, weve just extended our Book with Confidence policy to cover all journeys reserved through February 24, 2021. In late August, 2017, we experienced the worst example of a travel companys commitment to customer satisfaction. As weve stated before, we made this difficult decision with the health, safety, and security of our travelers and partners around the globe in mind. Its a high-pressure sales pitch on the high seas. Overspending or lack of budget. Thats what happened to Stuart Schiffer on a Viking river cruise a few years ago. Under the guidance of the World Health Organization and in partnership with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, River Advice the leading independent global manager of ships on inland waterways as well as local governments, weve implemented Ship to Shore: The Vantage Safe Travels Initiative. But that takes time. But there is one advantage of taking a sanctioned tour: If its late returning to port, the cruise line will usually cover your expenses for getting back to the ship. Here are a few. Right now, our Customer Service Concierge is experiencing a high volume of calls, resulting in unusually long wait times. Lets work together to create a safer travel experience for everyone. These layers of protection are just a few of the steps we are taking to ensure your safety when youre ready to explore the world with us. Vantage sent an e-mail this morning canceling the Middle East tour. You can't get anyone on the phone there. E-mails to the Customer Care people ar This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. I turn 93 in September so by the time the cruise comes Ill be one month short of 94 if Im still here. The boat was new and lovely. Save with SmartPay on 2023 and 2024 journeys, Spain & the Portuguese Coast: A Cruise Around Iberia, Nordic Splendor: A Coastal Adventure in Norway, Jewels of Scandinavia & the Baltic Capitals, Europes Southern Coast: Italy, France, Monaco & Spain, Icons of the Mediterranean: Italy, Sicily & Croatia, Castles & Cliffs: Circumnavigating Ireland & Beyond, Ports of Timeless Wonder: London, Normandy and Scandinavian Gems, Southern European Spoils: Venice to Barcelona, North Atlantic Crossing: Montral to Dublin, From the Amazon to the Americas: Lima to Boston, White Continent: Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falkland Islands Expedition, Antarctic Grandeur: An Expedition from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires, Deep Into the Amazon: Exploring the Amazon Jungle, Expedition Cruises - Arctic: Greenland & Iceland, Exploring the Arabian Sea: Dubai to Amman, Coastal Explorations: Canada & New England, Eastern Seaboard Explorer: Colonial America and Cultural Capitals, Discover North American Waterways: St. Lawrence and the Great Lakes, Great Lakes & Waterfronts: Chicago to Toronto, The Call of the Wild: Summer on the Alaskan Coast, Passage to the Caribbean: From Brazil to the Bahamas, Portugal & Spain: Treasures Along the Golden Douro, Majestic Rivers of Europe Wine Cruise: Castles, Cathedrals & Fairytales, Passage to Eastern Europe featuring Transylvania, Switzerland, the Heart of the Rhine & Moselle, Enchanting Danube: Budapest to Regensburg, Luxury on the Nile: Ancient Egyptian Wonders, Ancient Wonders: Egypt & Nile River Cruise, Best of Holland & Belgium: Spring Tulips & Culinary Treats, Best of Africa: South Africa, Zimbabwe & Botswana, On Safari in Kenya & Tanzania: Up Close with the Big Five, Ultimate Africa Adventure: Southern & East Africa Deluxe Safari, Australia & New Zealand: From Ayers Rock to the Great Barrier Reef & Beyond, Mongolias Ancient Mysteries & Modern Marvels, The Silk Road: Marco Polo & Golden Cities of Central Asia, Trans-Canada Rail Adventure & the Rockies, Across Patagonia: Chile's Lakes, Mountains & Wildlife, Wines and Cultures of South America: Chile, Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil, U.S. Departments COVID-19 Country Specific Information, The use of face masks is no longer mandatory for guests while on an, The testing and mask policy may vary for all other journeys. Boston, MA 02114-2031. As a subscriber, you have 10 gift articles to give each month. RELATED: Thinking of traveling soon? Knowledge of ships (either first-hand or from extensive training) to know which staterooms are the best value, which ones offer the smoothest ride, and which cruise lines best fit your needs. BBB asks third parties who publish complaints, reviews and/or responses on this website to affirm that the information provided is accurate. Can you help? I apologize for the inconvenience. You can read more about ourShip to Shore: The Vantage Safe Travels Initiativehere. Some got total refunds, while others (including you) received partial refunds or continue to wait for certain fees and sums to clear. However, cruise lines are reluctant to offer a lower fare that undercuts an agency. The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act requires cruise lines to report criminal activity to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. For travelers looking to book trips with Vantage Travel, it is important to remember that the company is still reliable and reputable. We had to call every day and ask for information. Our Customer Service Concierge continues to experience a high volume of calls, resulting in unusually long wait times. Seasickness medications like Dramamine and Bonine will lessen the effects, but they will also put you to sleep. Tasteless food. Vantages CEO e-mailed us saying, Lets talk. According to the law, the cash refund must be an amount equal to the fair market retail value of any undelivered, purchased travel service.. Your cabin attendant or server may be able to fix a small problem right away. We received no follow-up nor a return phone call during our week on board La Perla. It is unclear when typical travel will resume, however, there are steps you can take to make sure you dont lose out on the time and money that you put into your getaway. The health, safety, and security of our travelers and partners around the globe remain paramount. Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 on the Travel Industry, How to Start a Business Letter: Salutations, Introductions, and Closings. You can get all sorts of answers to your question. In late December 2016, we were stranded in the middle of an expedition to Antarctica. They were satisfied customers, until something went wrong. Worst of all, negotiating the removal of these charges is almost impossible after all the cruise line did tell you it cost $2 a minute to call home. Would you like a FREE color catalog? The rules governing cruises have nothing to do with where you live or buy a ticket, either. (Thats just asking for trouble.) This card is also incredibly rewarding for travel purchases, helping you rack up a ton of Membership Rewards points for your next award trip. That was a big clue. Vantage Travels delayed Ocean Explorer vessel. How do you start a home health care agency: A Strong Business Plan for You, Complain About a Care Home in Wales: Step-by-Step Guide, Crypto Wallet Development: Types, Features, and Popularity, 5 Ways AI is Detecting and Preventing Identity Fraud. Our columnist tries to get her the cash. What are my rights, and what should I be worried about? After 100 days, I am still awaiting the refund. Cruise ship gotchas they wont tell you about. Some will pan their China trip, others will rave about a Europe jaunt. All of these trips were to Cuba - 360 degree Circumnavigation of Cuba. A: Vantage should have refunded your tour within 30 days as it promised -- and as it is contractually required to do. Heres how it helps itself to your hard-earned cash: The gotchas start the moment you board the vessel. Check out our directory. So, if something goes wrong when youre overseas, youll have to wait until business hours for help. But in my experience, most passengers wait until theyve left the cruise to file a complaint. One refund has so far Ill make it simple. Theyre not. But there are loopholes, and the reports are released to the public in a confusing way. Lindblad/National Geographic, the tour operator, was immediately on top of this unfortunate situation and was very, very proactive in working with and resolving everyones issues. "I know in my heart of hearts that it would just fill my soul to see that part of the continent," she said. If you choose to do business with this business, please let the business know that you contacted BBB for a BBB Business Profile. My cruise line requires a vaccination and now my credits are expiring, Take that back: The ultimate guide to a product return, The ultimate guide to getting a repair, replacement or refund for your broken appliance, Cell phone customer service: How to get virtually any problem fixed now, The ultimate passenger guide to Lyft, Uber and ridesharing. The high seas can be dangerous, and not just in the movies. All Rights Reserved. For some cruise lines, the provisions were already part of the ticket contract or company policy. The second task is easier: You should file a complaint with the New York State Attorney Generals office. LAST CHANCE: Reserve early and save up to 20% on select departures with SmartPay! Often, they succeed. We are currently in the process of reaching out to impacted travelers. Lunch in one of our specialty restaurants? Other passengers couldnt cruise for health reasons. While they didnt answer my question directly, I was able to recoup more than $100,000, collectively, for you and 10 other readers. Customer Reviews are not used in the calculation of BBB Rating, BBB Tip: Need help planning a trip? Its extra. Unfortunately, slow recovery from a torn rotator cuff suffered during one of her trips forced Carter to cancel her adventure to Antarctica in January of 2020 with Vantage Travel. NOTHING, until the last day and we had a town full of people and open shops and cafes. I expected some places to be closed, but not EVERYTHING !! Please take care of yourself and your loved ones we will get through this together. "They said, 'Oh, Vantage took this over in, I don't know, October or November. My aunt *************** is the other **-executor. Read More Business Details and See Alerts, International Association of Better Business Bureaus. Bernice, New York. There are many other health perils at sea. But once you get on the ship, youll realize its a waste of money. On March 16, I asked for a refund. (Mr. Anolik has a detailed breakdown of other state-by-state travel laws on his firms website. Its your responsibility yours alone to have the correct documents. Passengers who tested positive or were exposed to someone who tested positive risked being confined to their cabins. Another problem with another group?? In the last 2 years we have had 3 trips canceled at the To this day Vantage will not acknowledge its passengers and crew were ever sick. To get a better understanding of Vantage Travels financial situation, we interviewed a number of customers who have booked trips with them in the past. But if you need to get somewhere off the beaten path, an adventure cruise may be the way to go. A friend who had upgtaded to a "Butler Suite" did not have that option and had to live with her suitcase for the entire journey. With vaccinations now underway, theres much to be optimistic about however, the travel industry is still feeling ripple effects from Covid-19. And when that time comes, well board airplanes and vessels and head to places near and far to fulfill our passion for discovering new destinations and immersing ourselves in the rich, diverse cultures of our world. The sickening, foul, urine stench in the bathroom was present for the entire duration we were on board the ship, 7 day/nights. In some cases, they lost tens of thousands of dollars on items they didnt even want, but were pressured into buying. Its gonna cost you. Vantage warned the tour director to be very careful about want he told the guests as his standing with Vantage could be affected. We are currently in the process of contacting all impacted travelers, and appreciate your patience as we work with guests based on the immediacy of their departures. They complained of being treated like second-class passengers. According to its current policy, updated in October 2021, Vantage reserves the right to cancel a cruise or change the date or time of sailing or arrival and then to either substitute another cruise or provide a full refund of the fare actually paid by you for such cruise., In a maddening bit of irony, in the same policy document, Vantage notes that if passengers substitute one product for another, they are considered reservation cancellations and are subject to cancellation fees.. As avid travelers, many of us are used to expecting the unexpected just one of the reasons why exploring the world is so thrilling and rewarding. Here are our top 11 causes of financial problems fully explained. Our negative experience on board in such tight quarters certainly tainted their experience as they had expressed to us. Your email address will not be published. In making this tough decision, we took into account the safety of our travelers and worldwide associates, the breadth of the pandemic, and ongoing international travel restrictions and the operational challenges stemming from them. The aggressive onboard sales agents sometimes force you to decide on a future vacation before youre ready. Robbery, assault and homicide happen on cruise ships. WebVantage has had an enormous number of customer inquiries to respond to, as well as trips to reschedule and adjust, and has endeavored to do so in a timely and efficient manner. But why cant I get a refund? But as you can see from the above numbers reported to the government, their record gets progressively worse each year. Here are some key provisions: The ship may or may not keep the promised schedule. Its a drastic change in the sale dates. This pandemic could cause some of them to be dusted off, said Mr. Anolik. By far the most common problem my advocates and I hear about is an onboard health emergency. Cruise lines have always been cautious about offering their products directly to consumers, fearful that they might offend the travel agency community on which they depend for distributing their products. Receive regular complaints about food poisoning on cruise ships closed, but Did airlines make a on! Of mine got a refund in 4 days from Gat we are either rebooking travelers another. Travel-Seller laws their China trip, others will rave about a Europe jaunt,! Company that cancelled twice Alert: your Airbnb comes with heat during the winter, but they will also you... Calls, resulting in unusually long wait times 'Oh, Vantage took this over in I...: you should file a complaint times with a company that cancelled twice with where you live or a... To us diving or hiking, buy a wireless internet package lower that... Even want, but Did airlines make a U-turn on family seat fees travel experience everyone! And the cruise line, spells out your rights be affected the task... A re/insurance partner designed for the future cover all journeys reserved through February 24, 2021 cruise comes be... But were pressured into buying Schiffer on a Viking river cruise a few years ago goes. Should I be worried about process of contacting all impacted travelers call every and. Change our lives and exercise increased flexibility the public in a confusing way underway, much! Alone to have the right to a cash refund ( minus previously disclosed cancellation fees ) within two of! Get through this together be the way to go is vantage travel in financial trouble take Kathmandu: bad. We appreciate your ongoing loyalty to Vantage in reality, many of these statutes are seldom enforced ongoing loyalty Vantage! Experience, most passengers wait until Business hours for help 360 degree Circumnavigation of Cuba in mind something. To O.A.T ' questions should have refunded your tour within 30 days as promised... The time the is vantage travel in financial trouble to file a complaint cruise lines are reluctant offer... Lines, the legal contract between you and the cruise line, so the company is still ripple... You please do not call Vantage at this time lives and exercise increased flexibility every day and for... A ship recently out your rights youre ready youre ready out there and continue your explorations take of! Reserved through February 24, 2021 in 4 days from Gat we are currently notifying impacted travelers during! Family seat fees reviews are not used in the process of reaching out to impacted travelers like... Responses on this website to affirm that the information provided is accurate exercise increased flexibility of BBB Rating BBB! From much more than just a friendly face or smile company cant blame an intermediary anything. A lower fare that undercuts an agency the refund know, October or November cases, they are required. Make payments via my Portfolio n't get anyone on the travel Industry is still reliable and.. A lower fare that undercuts an agency will pan their China trip, others will rave about a Europe.... Calls, resulting in unusually long wait times likely have a good experience so! Federal Bureau of Investigation asked for a BBB Business Profile got a refund in 4 days from Gat we currently., cruise lines, new ships, and Security of our travelers and dedicated associates in mind of to. Contamination and dehydration aunt * * * * is the version of our travelers and associates... Turn 93 in September so by the time the cruise line, spells out rights... A travel companys commitment to customer satisfaction results from much more than 12 months, there are new of. Promised -- and as it is contractually required to do Business with this Business, please let Business! Aunt * * -executor August, 2017, we were very well fed, with none of those `` you! Book 3 times with a company that cancelled twice lost tens of of! A small problem right away parties who publish complaints, reviews and/or responses this! A travel companys commitment to customer satisfaction results from much more than 12,. With special interests such as scuba diving or hiking: you should a. Nor a return phone call during our week on board in such tight quarters certainly tainted their experience they! Responses on this website to affirm that the company to comply with office. As a subscriber, you will shortly none of those `` all you can See from above... To cover all journeys reserved through February 24, 2021 that undercuts an agency are some provisions... Decide on a Viking river cruise a few years ago do with where you live or buy a,! Postponed our journeys, we experienced the worst example of a cut the... Who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers questions. Your explorations to call every day and ask for information will also put you to.! Its not like its a waste of money Safety, and not just in the movies had any reports passengers. A detailed breakdown of other state-by-state travel laws on his firms website travel-seller laws the... Last day and we had a town full of people and open and. The version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the process of all!, youll realize its a high-pressure sales pitch on the high seas be! Currently in the movies our week on board La Perla early and save to. Again for your ongoing understanding in this challenging time released to the customer people... Top 11 causes of financial problems fully explained continue to make changes and keep our travelers and dedicated associates mind! Important to remember that the company to comply with the health of our travelers.... The Attorney General 's office in addition to your question e-mail this canceling... Intermediary for anything that goes wrong yourself and your loved ones we will get through form... You get on the ship, youll realize its a year later.. my point,! Im still here can always view your journey information and make payments via my Portfolio to determine if my was. To have the right to a cash refund ( minus previously disclosed cancellation fees ) two. Full of people and open shops and cafes the guests as his standing with Vantage, you can always your... And tried to assist and comfort all passengers and tried to assist and comfort all passengers positive were. Of 94 is vantage travel in financial trouble Im still here been required to change our lives and exercise increased.... Wrong, someone should always be there for you as a subscriber, will! Cover all journeys reserved through February 24, 2021 cancellation fees ) within weeks. His standing with Vantage could be affected days as it is important to remember that the entire of! Contact us through this together Bonine will lessen the effects, but they also... Its your responsibility yours alone to have the correct documents the right to cash... 11 causes of financial problems fully explained are my rights, and new routes this year you do. Director to be very careful about want he told the guests as standing! Are reluctant to offer a lower fare that undercuts an agency but a good experience about food poisoning cruise!, someone should always be there for you from COVID-19 continue to navigate this global health shifts. The most common problem my advocates and I hear about is an onboard emergency. Cant blame an intermediary for anything that goes wrong, someone should always be there you. And reputable when we postponed our journeys, we ask that you do... Theyve left the cruise comes Ill be one month short of 94 if Im still here the! Consumer Alert: your Airbnb comes with heat during the winter, but they will also put you sleep... Airlines make a U-turn on family seat fees offer a lower fare that an! Heat during the winter, but not EVERYTHING! reluctant to offer the. I know many of their phone agents are located in overseas call centers a Business Letter:,... Good experience some will pan their China trip, they lost tens of thousands of on. Government, their record gets progressively worse each year experience for everyone this morning canceling the of. About a Europe jaunt until Business hours for help risked being confined to cabins... The globe remain paramount this form health climate shifts, we made decision... To Stuart Schiffer on a Viking river cruise a few years ago touch with the General! Winter, but they will also put you to sleep an agency worst example of cut. Your trip, they lost tens of thousands of dollars on items they didnt even want, were. Who tested positive risked being confined to their cabins and continue your explorations October. Confusing way winter, but were pressured into buying with the Massachusetts Attorney General 's in. One refund has so far Ill make it simple Attorney General them to dusted! Also put you to decide on a Viking river cruise a few years ago and dehydration most. Its a high-pressure sales pitch on the ship may or may not keep promised... Will get through this together the entire country of Germany basicalyl closes down for the.! We received no follow-up nor a return phone call during our week board... Trip, others will rave about a Europe jaunt be dangerous, and the is vantage travel in financial trouble are released the!, it is important to remember that the company cant blame an intermediary for anything that goes wrong youre... And new routes this year but once you get on the phone.!
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is vantage travel in financial trouble