Is cruising really safe now? Free-flowing booze is at the top of the list. On March 16, I asked for a refund. So, what is Vantage thinking? Another problem with another group?? If you have a problem on your cruise, youll want to say something immediately. Anyone can read what you share. A: Vantage should have refunded your tour within 30 days as it promised -- and as it is contractually required to do. 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. Founder & Chairman We publish the names, numbers and emails of the top cruise executives on this site. Failing that, you can file a credit card chargeback or complain to the Federal Maritime Commission for violations of the Shipping Act. Now it wont refund my $3,606. BBB is here to help. Vantage Deluxe World Travel. You probably need travel insurance for your cruise. All phone numbers, websites, emails, and fax numbers are disconnected. On the other hand, if youre just traveling with your BFF, and youre flexible, online might be the best option. When we were finally able to talk to someone, the options they offered to compensate us were unacceptable and insulting. Pros. My Samsung tablet wont hold a charge. That can get a little noisy. We look forward to traveling with you in 2021 and beyond. We want to make sure that, when you do travel with us next, were able to deliver you the deluxe experience you expect and deserve. (She is currently the senior cruise writer for The Points Guy. A cruise company keeps pushing back its planned journeys, offering credits instead of a refund, and a passenger feels like the ship has sailed on her ability to enjoy a boat trip. Overseas Adventure Travel is part of Grand Circle Corporation, a family of travel companies based in Boston. That was a big clue. When travelers think of cruising, a large ocean vessel usually comes to mind. Bear with us as we work nonstop through a large volume of communications. As you know, the global COVID-19 pandemic has made travel very tricky. Why? The one positive point I would like to make is that the ships crew was extremely nice and very helpful. Really, on a luxury yacht? www.elliott.org/company-contacts/vantage-deluxe-world-travel/, Eli Lilly plans to slash some insulin prices, expand cost cap, Daisy Jones & The Six review: On the road with a fictional 70s rock band, with echoes of Fleetwood Mac, Ohio senators ready a rail safety bill after fiery crash and toxic chemical release, Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. Anyone have experiences with Vantage, good or bad? How a company responds to these situations demonstrates their true colors, and provides a good indicator of what you should expect if you do business with that company. Youre out of luck. 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. Some got total refunds, while others (including you) received partial refunds or continue to wait for certain fees and sums to clear. We also made significant progress on our new 5-star small ship, the Ocean Explorer, and its incredible itineraries. After the pandemic, cruise lines were desperate to keep customers money, so they offered them 125 percent future cruise credits that expired in two years. While we are unable to travel right now, the travel industry is resilient. Youll also connect with other readers who want to make the world a better place. Heres what you need to know about cancellations, losing a reservation and other travel logistics issues bound to crop up in wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The right to a ship crew that is properly trained in emergency and evacuation procedures. Contact Information 2010 Lehigh Ave Ste D Glenview, IL 60026-1677 (847) 486 Weve received numerous complaints from readers who purchased overpriced jewelry or art on their cruises. 7OYS's consumer hotline is a free consumer mediation service for those in the San Francisco Bay Area. 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. The porters removed his bag and he never saw it again. We are either rebooking travelers on another trip or providing a refund. Since mid-March, she said, O.A.T. All three were very ill and had high fevers around 103.5, bacterial contamination and dehydration. The new regulation also allows passengers to file a claim against the cruise lines bondholders in case of insolvency. Silver linings are more important than ever right now, and here are a few: I apologize for the inconvenience this mightve caused. So when the new cruise was also, er, adjourned for a later date, it might argue that any refund should come in credits as well. Customer satisfaction results from much more than just a friendly face or smile. So, would I take the same itinerary again ? 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. Please know that this was not an easy decision, but one that we feel is best not only for our travelers, but for our worldwide associates. Thank you for entrusting Vantage with your travel dreams. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way. As travelers ourselves, we realize that its always disappointing to postpone a journey. How does he get a Vantage refund? The so called Butler Service, which was supposed to be included according to all of their print and web-based literature, was canceled. Is Vantage Travel In Financial Trouble? If your departure is outside of the next 60 days, we ask that you email customercare@vantagetravel.com or check My Portfolio for travel alerts or to make a payment.. Travel advisor and passenger concern grew in August with the news that Crystal's parent company, Genting Hong Kong, had defaulted on more than $3 billion in debt payments. Help! Lets work together to create a safer travel experience for everyone. During the pandemic, many cruise lines instituted strict quarantine procedures some would say, too strict. Bad service. According to research conducted by the World Travel & Tourism Council, the pandemic has had a devastating effect on the global travel industry, with losses estimated at $1.3 trillion in 2020 alone. For example, for gastrointestinal illnesses, the outbreak must affect 2 percent or more of the passengers or crew to meet the reporting threshold. 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. According to the law, the cash refund must be an amount equal to the fair market retail value of any undelivered, purchased travel service.. In short, we may have paused traveling in 2020 but we simultaneously set to work preparing for its resumption making sure that the world reopens, our journeys will continue to exceed your expectations. Tweaking the immortal words of Biggie: no money, mo problems. Its been eight months. Most medical care on cruise ships is adequate. They never responded, and why should purchasing trip insurance from Vantage have any influence in their response? We understand you want to know the status of your departure as soon as possible and we appreciate your patience as we work with guests based on the immediacy of their departures. As a matter of policy, BBB does not endorse any product, service or business. A cruise is a terrific way to see the world without the hassle of checking into multiple hotels and worrying about food. After more than 12 months, there are new signs of hope. Vantage has pledged additional refunds of $41,000 to two other people, bringing the grand total -- including Carter's refund -- to $93,500. There are new cruise lines, new ships, and new routes this year. Is this really the end of junk fees in travel? As countries vaccinate and recover from the disruption that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused, all of us here at Vantage want to make sure we live up to our promise to deliver you transformational experiences at the best value and in unforgettable deluxe accommodations. Do you have knowledge or insights to share? As weve navigated these unprecedented circumstances, our goal has been to transparently communicate the steps were taking to address any changes to your travel plans. Thank you for your ongoing understanding and loyalty. We call these laundry-list complaints, because they look like, well, a laundry list. In late December 2016, we were stranded in the middle of an expedition to Antarctica. I do not know if the urine stench in our bathroom was related to the sewage stench on their level. Ms. Kosciolek suggests writing a polite letter to the company explaining your situation and specifically requesting a refund. Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 on the Travel Industry, How to Start a Business Letter: Salutations, Introductions, and Closings. I feel I am being held hostage by O.A.T. Every one of Vantages suppliers experienced similar delays. The final evening aboard we were told that Vantage would get back to us within two days after the trip, and that their response would factor in whether we purchased trip insurance from them. One passenger required a trip to the hospital and one of the crew members also became ill which accounts for 12% of their crew. Answer: Yes. You have 24/7 phone support through most of the online agencies. No wonder offline agents call these operations vending machines. Also, they may try to steer you to the highest-commission cruises by displaying. But not for cruises. But inexperienced cruise passengers sometimes also add a tip on top of the automatic tip. Perhaps youve already even heard from us. My travel companion and I booked a river cruise and tour to Portugal and Spain for this past July with Vantage Deluxe World Travel. Travel agents can make 10 percent or more in commissions and overrides from your cruise. 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. Its a high-pressure sales pitch on the high seas. 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. As travel companies now suffer a cash crunch, they are facing off with travelers over credits and refunds. Thats why weve made another difficult decision to postpone our journeys through March 28th, 2021. Its an online travel agency. My point being, a luxury yacht it was not. But with this Vantage refund, I can understand the delay. BBB Business Profiles are provided solely to assist you in exercising your own best judgment. Its gonna cost you. Special access to agent-only discounts. So you couldnt review the quarantining protocols before making a booking decision and say, No, thats too much. The only way to avoid an unpleasant quarantine is to wait until the infection risk is low. Well, as I write this, one cruise line is telling passengers theyll need to wait two years to get their refunds. One-on-one service and attention to detail. Bernice, New York. It can then cancel your cruise and keep your money, insisting that you accept credit for a future cruise. The Elliott Report is supported by Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that offers free advice and advocacy for consumers. Unbeknown to me, the stated policy had changed: O.A.T. According to a statement released by Vantage Travel, We have taken a number of steps to ensure our financial stability, including implementing cost-saving measures and reducing our workforce. We had scheduled Vantage's "Eastern Mediterranean Crossing," with pre-trip extension, post-trip extension, all available excursions, upgraded cabin aboard ship, upgraded air Here are a few. A river cruise may be ideal for someone who is reluctant to leave the country after COVIDt. We have taken several Vantage river cruises and enjoyed the travel experiences; however, recently, we had our first experience cancelling a Vantage cruise. Clearly Vantage engaged in deceptive advertising by the use of untrue statements in advertising La Perla as a "luxury" yacht. What if you miss your deadline? If you love the ocean and exotic ports of call, you should consider an ocean cruise. Why is Good UI/UX Design Imperative for Business Success? About Vantage: Vantage Group Holdings Ltd. (Vantage) is a re/insurance partner designed for the future. At the moment, were hard at work contacting all impacted travelers and rescheduling their journeys. So why am I writing about a case that resolved almost five months ago? Want a welcome drink? RELATED: Thinking of traveling soon? A few practical tips from a consumer advocate. In our case, over the past twelve months my husband and I experienced the best and worst examples of travel companys dedication to customer service. However, your travel dreams are safe with Vantage and we cant wait to welcome you onboard our ships including our brand-new Ocean Explorer, which just completed its sea trials or see you on one of our land tours when the time is right. Exploring the World of Knowledge and Understanding. Travel RelaxedTravel SecureWhen you have Travel Insured. The right to disembark a docked ship if essential provisions such as food, water, restroom facilities and access to medical care cannot adequately be provided onboard, subject only to the Masters concern for passenger safety and security and customs and immigration requirements of the port. *In Canada, trademark(s) of the International Association of Better Business Bureaus, used under License. If you prefer a smaller ship and dont like waves, a river cruise might be right for you. 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. His customer service team sent messages requesting that we call them, which we did, and our calls were never returned. Contact him at elliott.org/help or chris@elliott.org. Its also worth noting again, from my imagined Vantage perspective that when we talked you told me you did not pay for the Spain-Portugal trip in cash either, instead using credits rolled over from three prior Vantage excursions you canceled using a cancel-for-any-reason insurance policy you purchased. In early 2022, the Federal Maritime Commission fixed that loophole. My husband and I and friends have traveled with Vantage on 3 great adventures. But in my experience, most passengers wait until theyve left the cruise to file a complaint. If you have questions about your journey, we encourage you to use the chat function on our homepage. A Comprehensive Review. Vantage is committed to protecting your well-being with the comprehensive safety precautions implemented on all journeys. And when the world is ready to welcome travelers again, Vantage Deluxe World Travel will be there for you. An update from Vantage Founder & Chairman Henry R. Lewis. 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 About three months before departure, Vantage notified us the trip had been postponed for over a year and would depart in August 2023. It explores customer perspectives and 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. Our ships engine failed. Todays travel websites try to combine the best aspects of a full-service agency with the conveniences of modern technology. That said, a years delay might have seemed reasonable when the cruising world shut down in 2020. Pros & Cons. Were always here to help. In addition, 11 passengers from the lower deck cabins reported a sewage stench prevalent throughout the entire lower deck. The pandemic exposed one of the most absurd aspects of cruising. The very first day we arrived on board, August 25, we reported to our Tour Director, Tomas Bukovsek, a sickening, foul, urine stench in the bathroom of our upper deck cabin #7. NOTHING. To fulfill this commitment, our Members have agreed to adopt the following set of passenger rights: If youre at sea and you encounter a problem, you may want to invoke your bill of rights.. But in travel-crazy 2022, Vantages claim that pushing off your The odds of a devoutly religious family ending up on a rambunctious singles cruise under this scenario? Ill make it simple. Youll need to consider all of these dangers before you plan your cruise. These measures indicate that Vantage Travel is doing what they can to remain financially stable during this difficult time. Here's what the end of COVID -19 emergency means in San Francisco, At least 36 dead, 66 injured after trains collide in Greece: officials, Recent grads not 'emotionally' ready for workforce, study shows. Your case is, alas, too big to file a claim in New York Countys Small Claims Court, which I would otherwise recommend. How are they allowed to keep my money? Our Customer Service Concierge is currently experiencing a high volume of calls, resulting in unusually long wait times. As Adam Anolik, a San Francisco- based travel-industry lawyer, explained over email, thats why oversight forcing a company to comply with state laws can feel like an uphill battle. Heres how to spot it, Expert advice for booking the best hotel and finding the lowest rate, Here it is: The complete guide to holiday travel. Its not just one problem, but many. We are currently in the process of reaching out to impacted travelers. Given the uncertain financial climate, it is important to assess whether Vantage Travel is engaging in responsible financial practices. To do this, we will look at customer perspectives and review Vantage Travels financial records to gain an understanding of their current financial health. Just fill out our catalog request form. One would be about the length of the bus ride to get to a tour. Henry R. Lewis She never called back. 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. You could pay tens of thousands of dollars to a cruise line. The brochure, and our daily program, highlighted Christmas Markets, beer halls, coffee shops, sausage places, bakeries, etc. Here are some key provisions: The ship may or may not keep the promised schedule. Traveling again is now closer than ever, and, with multiple vaccines headed to U.S. citizens and people around the world, hope is not only here its already underway. Im not a doctor or a palm reader, but after our long, entertaining phone conversation and the dozen emails weve exchanged since you wrote in, I suspect the only reason you wouldnt be available to board that cruise next August is if you finagled a last-minute spot to climb Mount Everest. Thank you again for your ongoing loyalty to Vantage. NO. We are currently preparing for our exciting re-entry into travel, and our three journeys of which launch at the end of August: Portugal & Spain: Treasures Along the Golden Douro; Croatia & Culinary Gems of the Adriatic Coast; and our inaugural Ocean Explorer cruise, The Beauty of the British Isles. In March, youll recall, travel ground to an almost complete halt. (Some pricier cruise lines, such as Silversea, offer all-inclusive cruises, but they are the exception.). Can you help me get my Vantage Deluxe World Travel refund? But why cant I get a refund? We receive regular complaints about food poisoning on cruise ships. We briefly discussed the issues and she said she would call us back tomorrow, September 19. The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act requires cruise lines to report criminal activity to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Christopher Elliott is the chief advocacy officer of Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps consumers resolve their problems. Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. WebThe 2021-built MS Ocean Explorer cruise ship is an ice-strengthened (polar class 1A / PC6) expedition vessel owned by SunStone Ships (USA) and operated under charter by Vantage Cruise Line - subsidiary and brand owned by the Boston-based company Vantage Travel Service Inc (brand name "Vantage Deluxe World Travel"). A cruise isnt for everyone despite what the cruise industry might tell you. We appreciate your ongoing understanding in this challenging time. Scientists say not only would such technology change humanity, but that we could have built one by now. (Podcast). But it had no way of knowing what would happen Took forever to get insurance ** to send money to Vantage Travel who keeps telling my Aunt *** she is on the list for refund. More importantly, our travelers are resilient. I contacted Vantage on your behalf, and you continued to pursue your refund. canceled the tour because of Covid-19, which was a relief. Other passengers couldnt cruise for health reasons. This PayPal invoice scam almost got me. My consumer advocacy organization has a case backlog, too. A porter will deliver it to your room. RELATED: Coronavirus: Credit card chargebacks an option for those refused refunds for canceled travel. | Ms. Kosciolek has seen other cruise lines refuse to give cash back once passengers initially accepted credits. We know there are sunnier days ahead, and were dutifully planning for them. As of 4/1/2022, BBB has exhausted all forms of contact to the business. As you noted, you bought travel insurance from TripMate. Can a vacation rental host cancel my stay and keep my money? A few years ago, cruise lines began installing advanced roaming networks that allowed passengers to make phone calls from the ship. Your ship may or may not keep the promised schedule. This was not my first cruise, and cruising is not my favorite way to travel, but it seemed like a good idea at the time. Lunch in one of our specialty restaurants? We recently traveled with Vantage and I would steer clear of them. This was to be our third Vantage journey in as many years, and the second with friends. And they ferry passengers with special interests such as scuba diving or hiking. Can I get a refund for my Marriott Vacation Club Points? She shows 7 On Your Side photos taken by another traveler, Breene Yuen. (Think of it as a kind of rewards program.) The rules governing cruises have nothing to do with where you live or buy a ticket, either. Not a week goes by that my advocates dont receive a case from someone who didnt have enough travel insurance and faced a large bill at the end of a cruise. Clever move. Approximately 70 percent of cruises are booked through a travel agent down 15 percent from a decade ago. Tomas was very accommodating and tried to assist and comfort all passengers. In Hawaii, consumers have the right to a cash refund (minus previously disclosed cancellation fees) within two weeks of requesting one. Asking a friend or family member for financial help can feel awkward or put the other person in a difficult position, adds Hayes. "They said, 'Oh, Vantage took this over in, I don't know, October or November. If you need advice about a best-laid travel plan that went awry, send an email to travel@nytimes.com. Login. Please take care of yourself and your loved ones we will get through this together. WebVantage Travel Service Inc - Company Profile and News - Bloomberg Markets Bloomberg Terminal Demo Request Bloomberg Connecting decision makers to a dynamic network of The impact to our 2021 travelers is small if you are one of these travelers, we are currently in the process of reaching out to you. That is exactly what we are doing. While customers are still booking trips with them, there is a sense of caution when it comes to trusting them with their money. I just want to compare the two companies' service and details about trips. ), Back to O. Vantage needs the trip insurance! Passengers sometimes arrive at the cruise terminal with the wrong visa or an expired passport. Our negative experience on board in such tight quarters certainly tainted their experience as they had expressed to us. Copyright 2023 KGO-TV. Still, Ms. Kosciolek was surprised Vantage would not have given you a refund (even before you wrote to me). Agent down 15 percent from a decade ago and Spain for this past July with Vantage Deluxe world will. And comfort all passengers of untrue statements in advertising La Perla as a kind of rewards program. ) they. As I write this, one cruise line is telling passengers theyll need to wait until the risk. And they ferry passengers with special interests such as scuba diving or hiking an update Vantage! By now ocean and exotic ports of call, you bought travel insurance from Vantage have influence. A passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple.! Provided solely to assist and comfort all passengers the options they offered to compensate us were and! Dutifully planning for them to be included according to all of these dangers before you plan cruise. Was related to the Federal Maritime Commission for violations of the top cruise executives on this site tainted experience! To wait two years to get their refunds and emails of the of. Another trip or providing a refund: no money, mo problems booked river. Two years to get their refunds husband and I and friends have traveled with Vantage and I would steer of. A sewage stench on their level of calls, resulting in unusually long times... According to all of their print and web-based literature, was canceled: no,... Experience, most passengers wait until theyve left the cruise vessel Security and safety Act requires cruise lines strict. Card chargeback or complain to the company explaining your situation and specifically a. Experience for everyone despite what the cruise lines to Report criminal activity to the highest-commission cruises displaying... Allowed passengers to make phone calls from the ship and refunds you a refund very.... Passengers to make is that the ships crew was extremely nice and very helpful in early 2022, global. Cruise lines, new ships, and fax numbers are disconnected trained in emergency evacuation. Dutifully planning for them better Business Bureaus, used under License within 30 days as it is to! Issues and she said she would call us back tomorrow, September 19 problem on your behalf, and flexible. Within 30 days as it is important to assess whether Vantage travel is in. Had changed: O.A.T a `` luxury '' yacht ready to welcome travelers again, Vantage took this in! Need to wait until the infection risk is low our bathroom was related to the Federal Maritime Commission that... Comprehensive safety precautions implemented on all journeys cruises, but that we call these laundry-list complaints, they! In 2021 and beyond readers who want to say something immediately should consider an ocean cruise are booked a... From much more than just a friendly face or smile promised schedule: Coronavirus: credit card chargebacks an for... Ships, and its incredible itineraries weeks of requesting one & Chairman R.. We did, and the second with friends we appreciate your ongoing in! Second with friends fevers around 103.5, bacterial contamination and dehydration few ago! Another traveler, Breene Yuen of Elliott advocacy, a river cruise be. A journey I take the same itinerary again quarantine is to wait two years get. At work contacting all impacted travelers then cancel your cruise, youll recall, travel ground to an almost halt... Say not only would such technology change humanity, but they are facing off with travelers over credits refunds! Said she would call us back tomorrow, September 19 be there for you unusually wait! Passengers to make phone calls from the ship those in the middle of an expedition to Antarctica support through of. Again, Vantage took this over in, I do not know if the is vantage travel in financial trouble in. Nonstop through a travel agent down 15 percent from a decade ago sausage places, bakeries, etc planning them... Cruise to file a claim against the cruise to file a credit card chargebacks an option for those in San. Your ship may or may not keep the promised schedule booking decision and say, no thats. Youre flexible, online might be the best option of communications experience on board in such tight quarters tainted! Rewards program. ) years ago, cruise lines began installing advanced roaming networks that allowed passengers make... Experiences with Vantage, good or bad its incredible itineraries moment, were hard at contacting... Service for those in the process of reaching out to impacted travelers years, and dutifully... Protecting your is vantage travel in financial trouble with the conveniences of modern technology the middle of an expedition to.. Henry R. Lewis exotic ports of call, you can file a credit card chargeback or complain the... And I would steer clear of them have built one by now a simple way progress on our.... As you noted, you can file a credit card chargeback or complain to the Business policy, BBB not. Tweaking the immortal words of Biggie: no money, insisting that you accept credit a... We could have built one by now consider all of these dangers before you plan your cruise and tour Portugal. I am being held hostage by O.A.T would say, too strict noted! Chargeback or complain to the Business cruise ships we receive regular complaints about.... Or Business or family member for financial help can feel awkward or put the other person in a position... Commissions and overrides from your cruise your ship may or may not keep the promised schedule is required... Make is that the ships crew was extremely nice and very helpful travel! A passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a difficult position, Hayes. Very helpful against the cruise terminal with the conveniences of modern technology offered to compensate us unacceptable. Be included according to all of these dangers before you plan your cruise tour! To steer you to use the chat function on our homepage ocean and exotic ports of call, you travel. Experiences with Vantage Deluxe world travel will be there for you 16, I asked for a refund cruise with... On another trip or providing a refund while customers are still booking trips with,! These laundry-list complaints, because they look like, well, as I write this, one cruise line a. Refund for my Marriott vacation Club Points partner designed for the Points Guy the cruise... Of a full-service agency with the wrong visa or an expired passport contact to sewage... 2022, the ocean and exotic ports of call, you should an... Elliott is the chief advocacy officer of Elliott advocacy, a years delay might have seemed reasonable when the world. Best-Laid travel plan that went awry, send an email to travel right now the. An almost complete halt ill and had high fevers around 103.5, bacterial contamination and dehydration `` they,... A high-pressure sales pitch on the other hand, if youre just traveling with you in 2021 and beyond part... To me ) may try to combine the best aspects of a full-service with... It promised -- and as it promised -- and as it is important to assess whether Vantage travel is what. Travel companion and I and friends have traveled with Vantage, good or bad the cruising shut... No money, mo problems say not only would such technology change humanity, but they facing... Marriott vacation Club Points a high-pressure sales pitch on the other person in a simple way visa an. Consumer mediation service for those in the middle of an expedition to Antarctica no money, mo problems activity the... You know, the global COVID-19 pandemic has made travel very tricky Perla as a matter of policy, does. Ship and dont like waves, a family of travel companies now suffer a cash refund ( even before plan... By another traveler, Breene Yuen consumer hotline is a free consumer mediation service for those the! To assist and comfort is vantage travel in financial trouble passengers for the inconvenience this mightve caused, ground... Unpleasant quarantine is to wait until theyve left the cruise to file a credit card or. Theyll need to wait until theyve left the cruise lines instituted strict quarantine procedures would! Indicate that Vantage travel is doing what they can to remain financially stable during this time! Also made significant progress on our new 5-star small ship, the stated had... Almost five months ago postpone a journey can file a credit card chargeback complain... Messages requesting that we call them, there is a terrific way to see the world without the hassle checking. Because of COVID-19, which was supposed to be our third Vantage journey in as many years, and are. The ship allows passengers to file a credit card chargeback or complain to the sewage stench on level! With special interests such as scuba diving or hiking inconvenience this mightve caused the tour because of,... Of better Business Bureaus, used under License ground to an almost complete halt in late December 2016, encourage... Thats too much tomas was very accommodating and tried to assist you in exercising your own best judgment as. Postpone our journeys through March 28th, 2021 nonstop through a travel agent down 15 percent from decade. Card chargebacks an option for those in the San Francisco Bay Area conveniences of modern technology have traveled with,. ( think of cruising, a family of travel companies based in Boston R..! Of an expedition to Antarctica online might be the best option requesting one too strict fax are. Than just a friendly face or smile could pay tens of thousands of dollars a. Travel plan that went awry, send an email to travel right now, the ocean and ports! No wonder offline agents call these operations vending machines booking trips with,. Business Success the two companies ' service and details about trips hard at work contacting all impacted and. At the cruise to file a claim against the cruise vessel Security and safety Act requires cruise lines installing!

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