Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords: Postponed to May 26-June 3, 2022

Journey to Scotland’s Orkney and Shetland Islands and Norway’s majestic fjords. Cruise from Glasgow, Scotland, to Bergen, Norway, aboard the exclusively chartered, 5-star, small ship Le Bellot. Visit the Scottish Highlands and ride on Norway’s Flåm Railway. Edinburgh/Glasgow and Norway/Copenhagen extensions available.

Dates
May 30 - Jun 7, 2021  (9 Days)
Cost

from $5,295 per person, double occupancy

For more Information
travel@commonwealthclub.org

(415) 597-6720

    Sunday, May 30
    Depart the U.S.
    Monday, May 31
    Glasgow, Scotland

    Arrive in Glasgow where the indelible mark of Viking conquest still permeates the culture, and embark the Five‑Star Le Bellot (D)

    Tuesday, June 1
    Fort William / Scottish Highlands

    The legendary Scottish Highlands and their striking, rugged scenery have inspired countless folktales and storytellers with their enchanting and mysterious allure. Begin your day in bucolic Glenfinnan; view the Glenfinnan Viaduct, immortalized by the Hogwarts™ Express in the Harry Potter film series, and see the Glenfinnan Monument, commemorating the Jacobite Highlanders that Bonnie Prince Charlie rallied against King George II in 1745. Stop along the Caledonian Canal to view Neptune’s Staircase, an incredible feat of engineering when it was built in the early 1800s and the longest staircase lock in Britain. Travel along castle‑dotted shores enshrouded with myth and legend to Glencoe, hailed as one of Scotland’s most scenic glens, partially owned and preserved by the National Trust for Scotland. Attend the Captain’s Welcome  Reception this evening.
    Le Bellot (B,L,R,D)

    Wednesday, June 2
    Kyle of Lochalsh / Portree, Isle of Skye

    Visit the soul‑stirring 13th‑century Eilean Donan Castle, named for a sixth‑century Irish Saint. Colonel MacRae, of Clan MacRae, restored this icon in 1932 and established a clan museum. Travel across heather‑covered moors and through the starkly beautiful Cullin Mountains en route to the scenic capital of Portree, situated along the unforgettable coastline of ethereal Isle of Skye.
    Le Bellot (B,L,D)

    Thursday, June 3
    Kirkwall, Orkney Islands

    This morning, the director and head archaeologist of the Ness of Brodgar site, Nick Card, will provide his keen insights about this impressive ancient compound that lies outside of Kirkwall. Mr. Card’s research and fieldwork are internationally regarded, both in the archaeology field and by the popular press. The Ness of Brodgar excavations were named the Current  Archaeology Research Project of the Year in 2011 and were featured in a cover article of National Geographic in 2014. Steeped in Viking heritage, the largest Orkney Island, known as Mainland, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its concentration of prehistoric treasures defined as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Nearly 1000 years before Giza’s pyramids  were built and over 500 years before Neolithic humans raised Stonehenge, Stone Age inhabitants of this archipelago, dating from 3200 B.C., erected the Ness of Brodgar, a mysterious compound rivaling the scale of the Acropolis, demonstrating advanced technological prowess and Neolithic “artistry.” Walk among the nearby stone monoliths of the Ring of Brodgar, raised more than 4000 years ago in the patterned circle of a henge. See the ceremonial Stones of Stenness en route to the settlement of Skara Brae, where more than 5000 years ago, it was inhabited by an early Orcadian culture known for decorative arts and sophisticated craftsmanship. Thousands of years later, the Vikings established the port town of Kirkwall on Mainland, leaving behind the towering 12th‑century St. Magnus Cathedral, known as the “Light of the North.” Hear the classically haunting sounds of a Scottish bagpiper as you reboard the ship. This evening, a Scottish storyteller weaves traditional tales that have been handed down by word of mouth for generations.
    Le Bellot (B,L,D)

    Friday, June 4
    Lerwick, Shetland Islands

    Explore the remote Shetland Islands, declared a Global Geopark by UNESCO for their geologically diverse landscapes and seascapes carved by prehistoric ice. Here, nature’s colors and textures endlessly shift, and clamoring gannets and puffins crowd the dramatic rock cliffs. Dock in Lerwick, Shetland’s capital, and journey to the island’s southernmost point, scanning the verdant landscape for Shetland’s famous ponies grazing on the grass‑covered knolls. Visit Jarlshof, a pending UNESCO World Heritage site deemed the zenith of prehistoric architectural achievement in Northern Europe. Multi-period remains span over 4000 years of human history, including late-Neolithic stone houses, a Bronze Age village, an Iron Age broch and wheelhouse, Norse longhouses, a medieval farmstead and a 16th‑century laird’s house.
    Le Bellot (B,L,D)

    Saturday, June 5
    Cruising the Norwegian Fjords, Norway / Flåm Railway

    Norway’s fjords and islands offer some of Europe’s most profoundly beautiful coastal scenery, where sea mist and sunlight enhance the fjords’ deep blues and the valley’s lush greens. Cruise the majestic Sognefjord passing traditional farmsteads and villages flanked by soaring mountains and glaciers. This afternoon, board the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s most scenic train rides. This masterpiece of Norwegian engineering—the steepest standard‑gauge railway track in Europe, spirals 2835 feet— opened to the public in 1940 and travels 13 dramatic miles through 20 tunnels to Myrdal’s mountaintop station. Watch as snowcapped mountains, cascading waterfalls—including the awe‑inspiring Kjofossen—and intriguing hamlets unfold along this alpine branch of the world‑renowned Bergen Line.
    Le Bellot (B,L,D)

    Sunday, June 6
    Bergen

    Founded on a Viking settlement in 1070 and the Norwegian capital during the 12th and 13th centuries, Bergen was an important part of the Hanseatic League’s trading empire from the 14th to mid‑16th centuries. The city’s illustrious past can be glimpsed in the beautifully preserved gabled buildings of Bergen’s Bryggen (the old wharf), a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by lushly carpeted hills and fjords. Stroll the grounds of Troldhaugen, the summer home of famed Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg. Visit the reconstructed Fantoft Stavkirke, a traditional 12th-century wooden stave church, noted for its durable post and lintel construction. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in Bergen before the Captain’s Farewell Reception on board this evening.
    Le Bellot (B,L,R,D)

    Monday, June 7
    Bergen / U.S.

    Disembark in Bergen and continue on the Wonders of Norway Post-Cruise Option or transfer to the airport for your return flight to the U.S. (B)

    Map
    Scotland’s Cultural Capitals: May 29-30

    Explore two of Scotland’s great cities and their histories of fascinating clans, medieval knights and royal and religious intrigue. During your tour of Glasgow, visit its 12th‑century cathedral, the only medieval church in mainland Scotland to survive the reformation of 1560, and the captivating St. Mungo Museum. In Edinburgh, discover the UNESCO World Heritage‑designated Old Town, a labyrinth of medieval passageways, the Royal Mile and the neoclassical New Town, laid out in the 18th century. Explore imposing Edinburgh Castle, a powerful national symbol dating from the 12th century with curving ramparts that define the city’s romantic silhouette. Spend two nights in the ideally located, Five-Star Sheraton Grand Hotel.

    Wonders of Norway & Copenhagen: Jun 7-12

    Immerse yourself in majestic Norwegian landscapes and traditional Scandinavian culture on this unique and exclusive five‑night journey. Experience the majesty of the Norwegian highlands and ride through the stunning scenery of Europe’s highest mountain plateau on the Bergen Railway. In vibrant Oslo, visit the stately Opera House and the unique Vigeland Sculpture Park. In the Danish town of Roskilde, visit its 12th‑century, Gothic‑style cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the fascinating Viking Ship Museum. Enjoy an exclusively chartered cruise along Copenhagen’s idyllic canals to see Christiansborg Palace, the Old Stock Exchange, Amalienborg Palace and view the “Little Mermaid” statue. Accommodations are for four nights in comfortable hotels and one night aboard an award‑winning Seaways ferry from Oslo to Copenhagen.

    Cabin Categories (Prices are per person, double occupancy)
    8 – $5,295  Picture window, single door onto private partial-wall balcony. Deck 3, forward (limited availability)
    7 – $5,995  Picture window, single door onto private partial-wall balcony. Deck 3, forward, midship
    6 – $6,795  Expansive sliding glass door, private balcony, Deck 4, forward
    5 – $7,495  Expansive sliding glass door, private balcony, Deck 4, midship
    4 – $7,995  Expansive sliding glass door, private balcony, Decks 5 & 6, aft
    3 – $8,595  Expansive sliding glass door, private balcony, Deck 5, forward (limited availability)
    2 – $8,895  Expansive sliding glass door, private balcony, Deck 5, midship
    1 – $9,495  Expansive sliding glass door, private balcony, Deck 6, midship
    Deluxe Suite – $10,695  Suite with expansive sliding glass door, large private balcony, two bathrooms, two closets large sitting area with sofa, Deck 5 (limited availability)
    Prestige Suite – $11,495  Two-rooms, expansive sliding glass door, large private balcony, sitting area with sofa, Decks 3, 4, 5 & 6 (limited availability)
    Privilege Suite – $11,795  Large suite with expansive sliding glass door, large private balcony, sitting area with sofa, Decks 5 & 6 (limited availability)
    Grand Deluxe Suite – $12,695  Large two-room suite with expansive sliding glass door, spacious private balcony, full bath with tub and separate shower, additional half bath, sitting area with sofa, Decks 5 & 6 (limited availability)
    Owner’s Suite – $12,995  Large two-room suite with expansive sliding glass door, spacious private balcony with outdoor Jacuzzi, full bath with tub and separate shower, additional half bath, sitting area with sofa, Deck 6 (limited availability)

    Singles are available in category 5 at $12,695 and in category 2 at $14,995.

    Prices above reflect the Early Booking Discount. Add $1,000 for reservations made after October 15, 2019. Taxes are an additional $440 per person and are subject to change.

    Included
    Exclusive lecture by Nick Card on the Ness of Brodgar; Seven nights aboard the exclusively chartered, Five-Star Le Champlain; Cruise from Glasgow, Scotland, to Bergen, Norway, featuring port calls at Fort Williams for Glenfinnan and Glencoe, Scotland; Kyle of Localsh for Isle of Skye; Kirkwall, Orkney Islands; Lerwick, Shetland Islands; and Sognefjord, Norway, with a ride on the Flåm Railway; Meals as specified in the itinerary; Complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages available throughout the cruise; Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions; All entrance fees and tours as described in the itinerary; Transfers and luggage handling abroad if your arrival(s)/departure(s) coincide with the scheduled group transfer(s); Gratuities to local guides and drivers on included excursions and transfers; Complimentary bottled water in your accommodations and on excursions; Hospitality desk aboard the ship; Experienced Gohagan & Company Travel Directors throughout the program; Pre-departure materials, including a reading list; Automatic $250,000 flight insurance policy for each participant ticketed on flights by Gohagan & Company

    Not Included
    International airfare; Taxes of $440 per person (subject to change); Gratuities to ship personnel (approximately $15 per person per day); Hotel staff gratuities ($1 to $2 per person per day) and gratuities for activities on your own; Passport and visa fees; Meals and alcoholic beverages not listed as included; Transfers and baggage handling to/from airport/hotel on day(s) of arrival and/or departure if you are arriving earlier or later than and/or departing earlier or later than the scheduled group transfer(s); Any overnight on land due to flight schedule(s); Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls and Internet access unless otherwise specified; Accident/sickness, trip cancellation and baggage insurance; Baggage charges on aircraft; airfare and associated local taxes not listed as included; Airport facility taxes and federal inspection fees not listed as included; All other services not specifically mentioned in the “Included” section

    Optional Pre-Tour: Scotland’s Cultural Capitals
    $1,295 per person, double occupancy
    $1,895 single occupancy room

    Optional Post-Tour: Wonders of Norway & Copenhagen
    $2,795 per person, double occupancy
    $3,895 single occupancy room

    What to Expect

    Moderately Active. Many of the cities and towns being visited were founded centuries ago, and the terrain is rugged. Therefore, a fair amount of walking along narrow cobblestone streets, stone floors or uneven and/or slippery terrain and climbing several flights of stairs (some without railings) is to be expected. Walking excursions often cover distances of at least one mile and are approximately three hours in length.

    Hear from guest lecturers aboard the ship throughout the voyage.

    Reservations: 
    A $800 per person deposit, along with a completed and signed Reservation Form, will reserve a place for participants on this program. Additional $200 deposit per person required for the extensions.

    To make a reservation please email travel@commonwealthclub.org or call (415) 597-6720 to sign up.

    Cancellations
    Cancellations for all or any part of the trip including Pre/Post Program(s) reservation(s) will not be effective until received in writing in the offices of The Commonwealth Club. Should you have to cancel, the following terms will apply:

    120 days or more prior to departure: $200 ($50 Pre/Post Program(s)) 
    95 to 119 days prior to departure: $800 ($200 Pre/Post Program(s)) per person
    60 to 94 days prior to departure: 50% of the published full regular tariffs
    59 days or less prior to departure: No refund

    A “no-show” or early return from the trip will result in forfeiture of 100% of the published full regular tariffs. In addition, any applicable airline cancellation fees, optional excursion cancellation fees and administrative fees may apply.

    Discounted Reservations
    Discounts apply only to those reservations received in the offices of The Commonwealth Club in writing. In the event a “discounted” reservation must be cancelled, no “replacement” reservation can be substituted at the discounted rate. A “replacement” reservation is a new reservation and can be substituted only at the full-fare tariff. Cancellation penalties may apply.  

    Trip Insurance
    We strongly recommend that you purchase trip cancellation insurance. In the event that you must cancel your participation in a travel program, trip cancellation insurance may be the only source of reimbursement. Information will be sent upon registration and can be viewed on the Travel Insurance Services website.

    Eligibility
    We require membership to the Commonwealth Club to travel with us. People who live outside of the Bay Area may purchase a worldwide membership. To learn about membership types and to purchase a membership, visit our membership page or call (415)597-6720.

    Airfare
    Airfare is subject to change and availability and, depending on the fare basis, likely is nonrefundable. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between you and the airline, even if purchased through Gohagan.

    Luggage
    Luggage allowance policies are set by the airlines and may change without notice.

    Physical Accessibility
    All programs require physical independence and mobility. Any physical or mental condition that may require special medical attention or physical assistance (for example, the need for a wheelchair) must be reported in writing when you make your reservation. Travelers must be able to embark or disembark motorcoaches alone or with minimal assistance from your traveling companion and climb stairs and step over raised thresholds without assistance. Travelers requiring assistance must travel with a companion who will be responsible for handling equipment.

    Rates
    Prices quoted are based on fares in effect at the time of printing and are subject to change at any time. On land and/or cruise programs, even after full payment, Gohagan reserves the right to increase the tour price in the event of cost increases due to changes in supplier costs, currency fluctuations or fuel or energy surcharges and all such increases are to be paid to Gohagan upon notice to the tour participant of such increases. On programs which include Gohagan purchased interstate or international air (which originates or returns to the United States), no increased costs will be passed on after final payment except for subsequently imposed governmental tax increases.

    Release of Liability, Assumption of Risk, and Binding Arbitration Agreement Responsibility  
    The Commonwealth Club and Thomas P. Gohagan & Company and its and their employees, shareholders, subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, directors or trustees, successors, and assigns (collectively “Gohagan”), do not own or operate any entity which is to or does provide goods or services for your trip including, for example, lodging facilities, airline, vessel, or other transportation companies, guides or guide services, local ground operators, providers or organizers of optional excursions, food service or entertainment providers, etc. All such persons and entities are independent contractors. As a result, Gohagan is not liable for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any such person or entity or of any other third party.

    In addition and without limitation, Gohagan is not responsible for any injury, loss, death, inconvenience, delay, or damage to person or property in connection with the provision of any goods or services whether resulting from, but not limited to, acts of God or force majeure, acts of government, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, bites from or attacks by animals, insects or pests, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities of any kind or the threat thereof, sickness, illness, epidemics or the threat thereof, the lack of availability of or access to medical attention or the quality thereof, overbooking or downgrading of accommodations, mechanical or other failure of airplanes, vessels, or other means of transportation, or for any failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart timely or safely.

    If due to weather, flight schedules or other uncontrollable factors, you are required to spend an additional night(s), you will be responsible for your own hotel, transfers and meal costs. Baggage is entirely at owner’s risk. The right is reserved to decline to accept as a trip participant, or remove from a trip, without refund, any person Gohagan judges to be incapable of meeting the rigors and requirements of participating in the activities, or who is abusive to other trip participants, leaders or third parties, or who Gohagan determines to detract from the enjoyment of the trip by others. Specific room/cabin assignments are within the sole discretion of the hotel or cruise line.

    Gohagan reserves the right to change the itinerary or trip features at any time and for any reason, with or without notice, and Gohagan shall not be liable for any loss of any kind as a result of any such changes. Ship schedules, port calls, hours of arrival and departure, sightseeing events, special programs and guest lecture series (if applicable), are subject to change or cancellation. Gohagan reserves the right to substitute motorcoach transportation using hotels, inns or lodges for cruise accommodations if necessary due to weather, water conditions or levels, other events of force majeure, mechanical or other conditions beyond the control of Gohagan. Gohagan is not responsible therefor and is not required to compensate passengers under these circumstances. Gohagan may cancel a trip (or an option) for any reason whatsoever; if so, its sole responsibility is to refund monies paid by the participant to it. Gohagan, however, is not required under these circumstances to refund the cost of any purchased travel insurance. Gohagan is not required to cancel any trip for any reason including without limitation, United States Department of State, World Health Organization or other Warnings or Advisories of any kind. Gohagan is not responsible for penalties assessed by air carriers resulting from operational and/or itinerary changes, even if Gohagan makes the flight arrangements or cancels the trip. Gohagan reserves the right to substitute vessels, hotels or attractions of a similar category for those listed in this brochure.

    Binding Arbitration
    Any dispute concerning, relating or referring to this Agreement, the brochure or any other literature concerning the trip, or the trip itself, shall be resolved exclusively by binding arbitration pursuant to the Federal Arbitration Act, 9 U.S.C. Sections 1-16, either according to the then existing Commercial Rules of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) or pursuant to the Comprehensive Arbitration Rules & Procedures of the Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services, Inc. (JAMS). Such proceedings will be governed by substantive (but not procedural) Illinois law and will take place in Chicago, IL. The arbitrator and not any federal, state, or local court or agency shall have exclusive authority to resolve any dispute relating to the interpretation, applicability, enforceability, conscionability, or formation of this contract, including but not limited to any claim that all or any part of this contract is void or voidable. Please understand that by agreeing to these terms and conditions, the participant and Gohagan are waiving the right to a trial by jury.

    Acceptance of Contract
    By forwarding of deposit, the participant certifies that he/she does not have any mental, physical or other condition of disability that would create a hazard for him/herself or other participants and accepts the terms contained in this Release of Liability, Assumption of Risk and Binding Arbitration Agreement.

    Registration 
    Commonwealth Club CST#: 2096889-40; Gohagan CST#: 2031868-40, WST#: 601 767 666, OST#: TA 0905.