TERMS AND CONDITIONS

CONSENT TO TERMS AND CONDITIONS.

Access to and use of the services of Hautelier Travel LLC (“HELM & RUDDER” and/or “our”) and our website is subject to acceptance of these terms and conditions (“Terms and Conditions”). By accessing, using or obtaining any content, products, or services through our offices or through our website, you, the purchaser and/or traveler (“Customer” and “passenger” and “you/your”) agree to be bound by these terms. PLEASE READ THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE USING THIS WEBSITE. If you do not accept all of these terms, then please do not use our services or our websites. These Terms and Conditions govern the relationship between HELM & RUDDER and you, the Customer. These terms restrict your rights and remedies and provide protection to HELM & RUDDER, including warranty disclaimers and liability exclusions. By using HELM & RUDDER services and this website you acknowledge and agree (a) this is a fair balance because this website is accessible by you conveniently and at no charge to access the website; and (b) if you do not agree or do not accept these Terms and Conditions, you can easily choose to not use this website or HELM & RUDDER services. So, if anything is in these Terms and Conditions, including warranty disclaimers and liability exclusions, that you disagree with or are not willing to be bound by, or if something is missing from these Terms and Conditions that you consider essential, then you must not use this website. IF THERE IS ANY PART OF THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS YOU DO NOT AGREE WITH, PLEASE DO NOT USE THIS WEBSITE OR HELM & RUDDER’ SERVICES. No alterations to these terms and conditions may be made by any HELM & RUDDER employee, advisor, representative or agent, unless in writing by an authorized officer of HELM & RUDDER.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS, INCLUDING TSA AND DHS ACCEPTABLE IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS.

It is the responsibility of each Customer to obtain and carry a valid passport, visa(s), and all other documents required by applicable government regulations. When travelling domestically or internationally, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) advise that everyone carry at least two forms of acceptable identification in order to board a flight found in THIS PAGE. Examples: DHS-designated enhanced driver’s license, USA Passport, a foreign government passport. The name, date of birth and gender that appears on the identification card must exactly match the same such data that is listed on airline ticket(s) and booking records. HELM & RUDDER strongly recommends that you take into account that certain countries will not admit a passenger, if his or her passport expires within six (6) months of the date of entry. Non-United States citizens may require additional documentation. Children and infants also require all such travel documents. Minors traveling with one parent, and/or without both parents, may be stopped and not admitted, unless authenticated and verified consent forms are provided to the authorities, please see THIS PAGE. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency requires that for USA child groups under age 19 arriving by land or sea from a contiguous territory and traveling with a school group, religious group, social or cultural organization, or sports team, may also present an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Naturalization Certificate. Parental or legal guardian consent must be provided to the supervising adult/Group Leader in writing. The name, date of birth and gender that appears on the identification card must exactly match the same such data that is listed on your tickets and booking records. You acknowledge that it is your responsibility to ensure that the information on your tickets and confirmations is accurate. Any discrepancy between your reservation and your travel documentation may result in denied boarding or an undue delay at an airport security checkpoint causing you to miss your flight, and any subsequent scheduled travel bookings on cruises and tours. You acknowledge any failure to strictly comply with these requirements may result in denied boarding or an undue delay at an airport security checkpoint causing Customer to miss flight(s), and subsequent scheduled travel bookings on cruises and tours.

TRAVEL WITH MINORS

Customer agrees that any minor child traveling with Customer is in their care legally. In the event that Customer is traveling with a minor child and Customer is not the parent or legal guardian of such child Customer must have and carry on their person during travel a signed and notarized consent form from the child's parents or legal guardians consenting to travel with Customer. In the event that Customer is traveling with their own minor child who does not share the same last name as Customer, Customer understands that they must provide and carry on their person the child’s birth certificate during travel. HELM & RUDDER SHALL NOT BOOK TRAVEL ACCOMMODATIONS FOR ANY MINOR CHILD WITHOUT RECEIVING A SIGNED NOTARIZED CONSENT FORM, BIRTH CERTIFICATE, GUARDIANSHIP OR ADOPTIVE PAPERWORK FROM ALL LEGAL GUARDIANS OR PARENTS. 

CUSTOMER AGREES THAT ALL MINOR CHILDREN ARE IN THEIR CARE AND CLIENT ASSUMES ALL RESPONSIBILITY OF POTENTIAL INJURY, DANGERS, AND RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE TRAVEL OF THE MINOR CHILDREN. 

INDIVIDUAL ENTRY AND EXIT REQUIREMENTS.

Each foreign country holds different views of past criminal offenses, whether within or outside of their boundaries. If you have a current or past offense, and you are unsure how the country you are traveling to (or through) views that offense, please contact that country directly for entry and exit requirements. (See: THIS PAGE) HELM & RUDDER neither controls nor warrants the issuance of visas related to applicable travel. It is Customer’s responsibility to verify that all the visas required for your trip have been obtained, that the visas for each country are valid for the entry and exit dates of your visit, that your personal details are accurately reflected and that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the completion date of your trip. Please note that even when a visa is issued, a traveler may be denied entry since each country’s local immigration officials make the final entry decision. Several factors including past criminal record may contribute to the decision of the local immigration official(s). Should a visa not be issued, HELM & RUDDER is not responsible for lost payments made toward the contemplated trip. We feel it is an invasion of privacy for any member of our staff to make such an inquiry. For example, if traveling to or through Canada, Americans with a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) record should always check whether current rules exclude admission, and potential waivers. (See: THIS PAGE)

AUTHORIZATION TO USE, AND WARRANTY OF, PERSONAL INFORMATION.

BY REQUESTING TRAVEL SERVICES FROM HELM & RUDDER, CUSTOMER IS AUTHORIZING HELM & RUDDER TO OBTAIN CUSTOMER’S PERSONAL PRIVATE INFORMATION AND/OR TO PROVIDE CUSTOMER’S PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION TO THOSE THIRD-PARTIES THAT HELM & RUDDER DEEMS NECESSARY TO PROVIDE CUSTOMER WITH THE SERVICE THAT CUSTOMER HAS REQUESTED, AND TO PROVIDE THE TYPE OF INFORMATION THAT HELM & RUDDER DEEM IS REQUIRED AS AN INTEGRAL PART OF BOOKING CUSTOMER’S TRAVEL. HELM & RUDDER TAKES GREAT CARE TO USE ONLY REPUTABLE COMPANIES TO BOOK CUSTOMER’S TRAVEL. HOWEVER, HELM & RUDDER IS NOT LIABLE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH SUCH THIRD-PARTIES HANDLE CUSTOMER’S PERSONAL, PRIVATE AND/OR PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION, OR FOR ANY FAILURE BY SUCH THIRD-PARTIES TO PROTECT THE PRIVACY OF CUSTOMER’S INFORMATION. BY REQUESTING TRAVEL SERVICES FROM HELM & RUDDER, CUSTOMER IS CERTIFYING THAT ALL INFORMATION CUSTOMER PROVIDES TO HELM & RUDDER WILL BE ACCURATE, COMPLETE AND CURRENT AND THAT CUSTOMER IS NOT AND HAS NOT KNOWINGLY PROVIDED HELM & RUDDER WITH ANY FALSE INFORMATION.

BOOKING ACCURACY AND LEGAL NAMES.

CUSTOMER IS REQUIRED TO IMMEDIATELY REVIEW THEIR BOOKING CONFIRMATION AND VERIFY ALL ASPECTS OF THEIR BOOKING, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE FOLLOWING: CUSTOMER NAME, MAILING ADDRESS, EMAIL ADDRESS, TELEPHONE NUMBER(S), DATE(S) OF BIRTH, PRICING, AIRFARE, DEPARTURE/ARRIVAL TIMES AND AIRPORTS, ACCOMMODATIONS, AND ORGANIZED ACTIVITIES. CUSTOMER SHALL NOTIFY THE HELM & RUDDER IMMEDIATELY IF ANY ERRORS OR OMISSIONS EXIST OR OTHER CORRECTIONS ARE NECESSARY TO ADJUST OR OTHERWISE CHANGE CUSTOMER’S BOOKINGS. CUSTOMER VOLUNTARILY ASSUMES FULL AND SOLE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY AND ALL RISK AND/OR COSTS INVOLVED WITH FAILURE TO REPORT SUCH ERRORS OR OMISSIONS WITHIN 24 HOURS. CUSTOMER IS REQUIRED TO VERIFY THE ACCURACY OF THEIR LEGAL FIRST AND LAST NAMES. IT IS MANDATORY THAT NAMES ON BOOKINGS BE IDENTICAL TO THOSE ON ALL TRAVEL DOCUMENTS, SUCH AS PASSPORTS AND DRIVERS’ LICENSES.

RISKS/SAFETY.

Travel to certain destinations may involve greater risk than others. HELM & RUDDER urges customers to remain informed on a daily basis as to current news, as well as to review travel prohibitions, warnings, announcements and advisories issued by the United States Government prior to booking travel to international destinations. Information on conditions in various countries and the level of risk associated with travel to particular international destinations can be found at http://www.state.gov, http://www.tsa.gov, http://www.dot.gov, http://www.faa.gov, http://www.cdc.gov, and http://www.cbp.gov The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service provided by the U.S. Government to U.S. citizens who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign country. STEP allows you to enter information about your upcoming trip abroad so that the Department of State can better assist you in an emergency. Registration is recommended and provided by going to https://step.state.gov/step/

BY OFFERING FOR SALE TRAVEL TO PARTICULAR DESTINATIONS, HELM & RUDDER DOES NOT REPRESENT OR WARRANT THAT TRAVEL TO SUCH POINTS IS ADVISABLE OR WITHOUT RISK, AND SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR COSTS, DAMAGES, OR LOSSES THAT MAY RESULT FROM TRAVEL TO SUCH DESTINATIONS. CUSTOMER’S PARTICIPATION CONSTITUTES ACCEPTANCE OF SUCH EVENTS AT CUSTOMER’S OWN RISK.

USE OF HELM & RUDDER ACCESS AND INFORMATION FOR TRAVEL BOOKINGS.

You warrant that you are at least 18 years of age and possess the legal authority to enter into this agreement and to make travel bookings with HELM & RUDDER by any means, including our website in accordance with all terms and conditions herein. You agree to be financially responsible for all of your travel bookings (as well as for use of your account by others, including, without limitation, minors living with you). You agree to supervise all usage of HELM & RUDDER communications by minors under your name or account. You also warrant that all information supplied by you or members of your household transacting business with HELM & RUDDER is true and accurate. Without limitation, any speculative, false, or fraudulent reservation or any reservation in anticipation of demand is prohibited. You agree that the travel services reservations facilities provided by HELM & RUDDER shall be used only to make legitimate reservations or purchases for you or for another person for whom you are legally authorized to act.

Separate supplier terms and conditions will apply to your reservation and purchase of travel-related goods and services that you select. You agree to abide by the terms and conditions of purchase imposed by HELM & RUDDER and any supplier with whom you elect to deal, or with whom HELM & RUDDER deals on your behalf, including but not limited to, payment of all amounts when due and compliance with the supplier’s rules and restrictions regarding availability and use of fares, products, or services. You understand that any violation of any such supplier’s conditions of purchase may result in cancellation of your reservation(s) or purchase, in your being denied access to any flights, hotels, cruises, or automobiles, in your forfeiting any monies paid for such reservation(s) or purchase, and in HELM & RUDDER debiting your account for any costs HELM & RUDDER incurs as a result of such violation. You shall be completely responsible for all charges, fees, duties, taxes, and assessments arising out of your travel bookings through HELM & RUDDER.

Customer authorizes HELM & RUDDER to book on third party travel booking sites to fulfill Customer’s travel requests. Customer ratifies HELM & RUDDER’ actions on Customer’s behalf, including acceptance of such third party’s terms and conditions, which limit Customer’s rights, and Customer agrees to bound by such actions. In the event of any inconsistency or ambiguity of terms, HELM & RUDDER shall benefit from the most favorable term(s) in each instance.

PAYMENTS AND CANCELLATIONS.

You shall be completely responsible for all charges, fees, duties, taxes, and assessments arising out of your travel bookings through HELM & RUDDER. By submitting a credit card authorization form to HELM & RUDDER, you agree to allow HELM & RUDDER to use your payment method to purchase travel products from our Suppliers on your behalf. EXCEPT IN CASES OF FRAUD, YOU AGREE NOT TO FILE ANY DISPUTE WITH YOUR BANK OR CREDIT CARD COMPANY TO AVOID OR VIOLATE ANY BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF HELM & RUDDER OR ITS SUPPLIERS, INCLUDING CANCELLATIONS OR CHANGES OF ITINERARY OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR REASONS BEYOND THE CONTROL OF HELM & RUDDER OR ITS SUPPLIERS. IF YOU ATTEMPT TO CHARGEBACK, REVERSE OR RECOLLECT A PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED TRIP PAYMENT, HELM & RUDDER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO COLLECT ALL ADDITIONAL COSTS, FEES AND EXPENSES ASSOCIATED WITH SUCH CHARGEBACK, REVERSAL OR RECOLLECTION, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ATTORNEY FEES.

Final payment is due prior to departure according to each supplier’s (airline, hotel, cruise line, transfer company, sightseeing operators, and other travel service vendors) terms and conditions involved in your travel booking. If final and full payment is not received by the applicable due date, reservations are subject to cancellation and deposits shall be forfeited. In some cases there is NO REFUND once a booking is made and paid for. Your right to a refund if you change or cancel your travel plans is limited. All cancellation requests must be sent to HELM & RUDDER in writing. As a result of cancellation, HELM & RUDDER’ and third party supplier’s cancellation penalties will apply, which are detailed in your travel documentation, this website, and each of the supplier’s website. Cancellation penalties are advised at time of booking and provided to you upon confirmation. If you have any questions, or any penalties are unclear, please contact your HELM & RUDDER advisor. All cancellation fees will be charged to the credit card you authorized to pay for travel services, or deducted from the supplier’s refund.

AIR, CHECK-IN, SCHEDULE RECONFIRMATION. UNLESS SET FORTH IN WRITING, AIRLINE RESERVATIONS ARE NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR TRAVEL PLANS.

In such event, it is the Customer’s responsibility to make appropriate air arrangements, as well as transportation to and from the destination where the travel booking originates and returns. HELM & RUDDER shall not assume any responsibility for any air and/or ground schedule changes. In rare instances, upon departure from a country, certain departure taxes must be paid in cash only, and may vary in price.

Your airline ticket is a contract between you and the air carrier, even if you purchase through HELM & RUDDER. If you purchase air travel through HELM & RUDDER, you acknowledge and agree that HELM & RUDDER does not have the right to control the operations of independent airlines, and agree that HELM & RUDDER is not liable for any personal injury, property damage related to your purchase of air tickets or air travel, including, but not limited to any act, error, omission, injury, loss, accident, or delay caused by any act, error or omission of the airline, including their failure to deliver services, partial or inadequate delivery of services, airline policies including refund or rebooking policies, fees for checked or carry-on luggage, fuel increases, bankruptcy or cessation of operations.

HELM & RUDDER shall not assume any responsibility for any air schedule changes. In rare instances, upon departure from a country, certain departure taxes must be paid in cash only, and may vary in price. Failure to use a reservation may result in automatic cancellation of all continuing and return flights, as well as forfeiture of airfares.

Airline e-tickets expire a year from issue date unless carrier fare rules in passenger's itinerary fare provide otherwise.

Due to enhanced security, it is strongly recommended that you check in a minimum of 2 hours prior to scheduled departure for domestic flights and 3 hours prior to scheduled departure time for international flights. Reconfirm flight times at least 24 hours prior to scheduled departure time for domestic flights, and 72 hours prior for international flights. Failure to use a reservation may result in automatic cancelation of all continuing and return flights, as well as forfeiture of airfares.

Frequent Flyer mileage accrual is at the discretion of the airline(s). HELM & RUDDER has no liability if accrual of miles or points is denied or if upgrades are not allowed. Many airlines do not permit upgrades on airfare purchased in certain fare classes or when using frequent flyer miles, loyalty status or certificates.

Seat assignments are not guaranteed even after they are assigned, and HELM & RUDDER has no control over airline seat assignments. Most airlines charge a fee to pre book a seat.

LATE BOOKINGS.

Prospective customers are advised to reserve early to avoid disappointment and additional late booking fees.

NO REFUND FOR UNUSED ARRANGEMENTS.

As HELM & RUDDER’ prices are oftentimes based on contract rates, there will not be any refund for any unused portion of a travel booking. Some group tours are based on minimum numbers of passengers traveling; if the number of passengers falls below the minimum required, a surcharge may be imposed or the tour canceled.

CURRENCY FLUCTUATIONS.

Currency exchange rates fluctuate. Prices are subject to change based upon currency exchange rate fluctuations, provided actual variations have occurred.

ALTERATIONS TO CONFIRMED BOOKINGS.

If you decide to change any portion of your confirmed arrangements prior to departure or during your trip, we will attempt to assist you at our applicable administrative charge, depending upon the circumstances of the request. Certain bookings may not be able to be changed, and you will be responsible for any increases in cost imposed by the Supplier, as well as any HELM & RUDDER or Supplier change fees. All requests for changes to a booking must be made in writing to HELM & RUDDER. When tour, cruise or package prices are based on Suppliers' contract rates, you will not be entitled to any refund for any unused portion of travel.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR DOMESTIC AIR TRAVELERS
The Federal Real ID Act mandates stricter security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and other forms of identification and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for official purposes identification that does not meet these standards. Beginning on May 7 2025, every air traveler will need to present Real ID-compliant identification to be permitted to board a domestic flight; therefore, those holding a non-compliant driver’s license will need to present an acceptable alternate form of identification, such as a valid U.S. passport. To avoid disruption to their travel plans, air travelers are strongly encouraged to consult with the Department of Homeland Security (www.dhs.gov/real-id ) to determine whether their state-issued identification is Real ID-compliant and, if not, what alternate forms of identification will be accepted at the airport.

HEALTH/SECURITY/TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS.

Each Customer is responsible to make absolutely certain to have the proper immunizations and required documentation of such immunizations before travel, and to make the necessary accommodation for security rules imposed by government authorities. HELM & RUDDER shall not assume responsibility for the accuracy of health requirements or vaccination and/or documentation prior to departure or upon landing at the final destination. See your health practitioner for advice. Prior to travel, required inoculations, if any, must be recorded by Customer’s health practitioner on a valid vaccination certificate, which the Customer must carry for proof of inoculation where required. If you are concerned about taking any medications or receiving certain inoculations, check with your health practitioner BEFORE booking. Check the USA State Department Website http://travel.state.gov, for relevant information relating to travel to specific destinations, and the USA Centers for Disease Control http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/ relating to health issues. For further information relating to security, safety issues, crime, the need for travel documentation (such as passports, visas, proof of health/vaccination certificates), health hazards, and other restrictions regarding travel to your domestic and/or international destination(s), and re-entry into the United States visit http://www.tsa.gov, http://www.dot.gov, http://www.faa.gov.us, http://www.ustreas.gov, http://www.cbp.gov on a regular basis for information regarding incidence of disease, terrorism, safety issues, crime, the need for travel documentation (such as passports, visas, proof of health/vaccination certificates), health hazards, and other restrictions regarding travel to your domestic and/or international destination(s), and re-entry into the United States especially your embassy and http://www.uscis.gov/ for non-USA citizens. (Customer is responsible to make HELM & RUDDER aware when traveling on a passport from a country other than the USA.)

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.

USA federal law prohibits passengers from bringing hazardous materials on the aircraft. (1) USA federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard aircraft in the passenger’s luggage or on the passenger’s person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radio-active materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. (2) There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in the passenger’s luggage and certain smoking materials carried on the passenger’s person. For further information, each passenger should contact the relevant air line representative(s) on their itinerary. Restrictions on hazardous materials are listed in (SEE THIS PAGE) and (SEE THIS PAGE).

INSECTICIDE NOTICE.

All passengers are advised to always check the list of countries that require airlines to treat the passenger cabin with insecticides prior to the flight or while on the aircraft on the DOT’s website, as this list is updated from time to time: (SEE THIS PAGE).

E-TICKETS.

E-tickets expire a year from issue date unless carrier fare rules in passenger’s itinerary fare provide otherwise.

LIMITATIONS OF RESPONSIBILITY AND DISCLOSURE.

HELM & RUDDER acts solely as a booking agent for disclosed principal supplier cruise lines, hotels, airlines, air charters, bus companies, ground transportation, boat purveyors or owners, and other independent contractors providing accommodations, transportation, and/or other services (“supplier(s)”), and is not the source or provider of the travel services. Each of these supplier companies is an independent entity with its own management, and is not subject to the control of HELM & RUDDER. Customer is advised that the suppliers whose names appear in travel documentation are those actually responsible for providing the travel services purchased, and consents to the use of those suppliers, and understands and agrees each supplier’s Terms and Conditions are contained in printed form and are set forth on their respective websites, which govern the transaction. All bookings are accepted by HELM & RUDDER as agent for the disclosed travel suppliers on your itinerary. The transportation, accommodations and other services provided by the identified sea, ground, and air operator suppliers offered are subject to the terms and conditions contained in the tickets, exchange orders or vouchers issued by them and/or their suppliers, including Terms and Conditions on their respective websites. BECAUSE HELM & RUDDER ACTS AS AGENT FOR DISCLOSED PRINCIPAL SUPPLIERS, AND DOES NOT HAVE THE RIGHT TO CONTROL THE OPERATIONS OF SUCH INDEPENDENT OPERATORS AND SUPPLIERS, YOU AGREE HELM & RUDDER IS NOT LIABLE FOR ANY PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE, WHICH MAY ARISE OUT OF THESE SERVICES. HELM & RUDDER HEREBY DISCLAIMS ANY LIABILITY WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, STRICT LIABILITY OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LIABILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL OR INDIRECT DAMAGES, IN CONNECTION WITH THE GOODS OR SERVICES PROVIDED BY ANY PRINCIPAL SUPPLIER BOOKING THROUGH HELM & RUDDER’ OFFICE OR THROUGH THIS WEBSITE, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LIABILITY FOR ANY ACT, ERROR, OMISSION, INJURY, LOSS, ACCIDENT, DELAY OR IRREGULARITY WHICH MAY BE INCURRED THROUGH THE FAULT, NEGLIGENCE, WILLFUL ACTS, OMISSIONS OR OTHERWISE OF SUCH SUPPLIER, OR OF ANY SUPPLIER OR THEIR RESPECTIVE EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, SERVANTS, OR REPRESENTATIVES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THEIR FAILURE TO DELIVER OR THEIR PARTIAL OR INADEQUATE DELIVERY OF SERVICES, FUEL INCREASES, AND OTHER MATTERS OUTSIDE OF HELM & RUDDER’ CONTROL, AND YOU HEREBY EXONERATE HELM & RUDDER FROM ANY LIABILITY WITH RESPECT TO THE SAME.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) is only applicable within the United States, and facilities for disabled individuals are limited outside its borders. A qualified and physically able companion must accompany travelers who need such assistance. Motorized scooters are unsuitable for many trips. Transportation services, including many tour motor coaches, are not equipped with wheelchair ramps.

HELM & RUDDER will make every effort to honor the price as originally quoted;, however,; under certain circumstances additional costs by a supplier or government may be imposed due to an increase in the cost for one or more of the travel components. Prior to full payment, prices including US air transactions or air tours (in, to, or from the US) could increase for certain travel services, including the following: a seat, carriage of passenger baggage, applicable fuel surcharge, or an increase in a government imposed tax or fee. US air transaction or air tour prices will not increase after making full payment, except for charges resulting from government imposed taxes or fees. Certain suppliers reserve the right to increase prices to cover increased costs, fuel surcharges, tariffs and taxes, and to reflect fluctuations in foreign exchange markets. Customer expressly acknowledges acceptance of these conditions applicable to purchase and authorizes HELM & RUDDER to charge Customer’s credit card for such additional amounts. This consent applies to all travel arranged by HELM & RUDDER for Customer, and may be revoked at any time with respect to future travel for which Customer has not yet made payment. Five (5) years following the date of Customer’s last travel booking, this consent expires.

Weather conditions, including but not limited to the presence or absence of snow, sunshine, and rainfall are not guaranteed to occur or not occur, and are clearly outside of HELM & RUDDER’ control. Volcanic eruptions, ash clouds, and wind may be characterized as an adverse weather condition or a natural disaster by suppliers and your travel insurance company, which is beyond the control of HELM & RUDDER. HELM & RUDDER reserves the right to cancel any itinerary or any part of it, to make such alterations in the itinerary as it deems necessary, and to refuse to accept or to retain as a member any person of any tour at any time. HELM & RUDDER shall not assume any responsibility for any air and/or ground schedule changes.

HELM & RUDDER HAS SOLELY RECEIVED COMMISSION AND FEES FOR TRAVEL TRANSACTIONS AND CUSTOMER AGREES AND UNDERSTANDS THAT ANY RECOVERY FROM HELM & RUDDER WILL BE LIMITED TO THE COMMISSION AND FEES PAID BY CUSTOMER AND ACTUALLY RECEIVED BY HELM & RUDDER IN THE PAST TWELVE MONTHS PRIOR TO THE ACTION GIVING RISE TO THE LIABILITY.

FORCE MAJEURE.

“Force Majeure” means, in relation to HELM & RUDDER, any circumstances beyond the reasonable control of HELM & RUDDER, (including, but without limitation, acts of God, explosion, flood, tempest, forceful wind, fire or accident, war or threat of war declared or undeclared, acts of terrorism, sabotage, insurrection, riots, strikes, civil disturbance, requisition, sickness, quarantine, government intervention, weather conditions, defects in machinery and vehicles, delay, wildlife, or other untoward occurrences).

HELM & RUDDER shall not be deemed to be in breach of these Terms and Conditions or otherwise be liable to you, by reason of delay in performance, or by non-performance, of any of its obligations hereunder to the extent that any such delay or non-performance is due to any Force Majeure.

If HELM & RUDDER, and/or any of its travel suppliers, are affected by Force Majeure, they shall be entitled to, and may in their sole and absolute discretion, vary or cancel any itinerary or arrangement in relation to your trip. Payment of any refund by HELM & RUDDER to you as a result of the non-performance of any obligations hereunder shall remain in its sole and absolute discretion, although HELM & RUDDER shall use its reasonable efforts to reimburse you where possible. However, HELM & RUDDER shall be entitled to deduct from any refund recoverable the reasonable actual and potential costs to HELM & RUDDER of the Force Majeure and applicable cancellation fees.

Regarding civil unrest, once HELM & RUDDER has investigated the prevailing situation, as it deems fit, it shall remain in HELM & RUDDER’ sole and absolute discretion whether to proceed with your trip. You may in such circumstances cancel the trip subject to HELM & RUDDER’ and each supplier’s terms and conditions.

TRAVEL INSURANCE.

HELM & RUDDER OFFERS ACCESS TO MANY OPTIONAL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES TO ENHANCE EVERY TRAVEL EXPERIENCE. OPTIONS SUCH AS TRAVEL INSURANCE PROTECT PASSENGERS AND THEIR INVESTMENT. UNLESS SPECIFICALLY NOTED, TRAVEL INSURANCE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE COST OF CUSTOMER’S ITINERARY TO PROTECT AGAINST THIRD PARTY SUPPLIER DEFAULT/BANKRUPTCY PROTECTION, DELAY, INTERRUPTION, MISSED CONNECTION FOR CRUISES, CANCELLATION, MEDICAL EMERGENCY TRANSPORTATION/EVACUATION & REPATRIATION, BAGGAGE & PERSONAL EFFECTS/LOST LUGGAGE & BAGGAGE DELAY, ILLNESS, JOB LOSS PROTECTION AND CHANGE OF PLANS, ACCIDENTAL DEATH AND DISABILITY, TRAVEL ACCIDENT/SICKNESS MEDICAL EXPENSES, AND MORE. PROPER INSURANCE MAY PROTECT YOU FROM FINANCIAL LOSS IN ALMOST ALL CIRCUMSTANCES. Without appropriate travel insurance, Customer understands and agrees that if Customer cancels or interrupts Customer’s travel for any reason, portions of the trip/tour may not be refunded and HELM & RUDDER’s and travel supplier’s cancellation penalties will apply resulting in the loss of monies up to the full cost of Customer’s travel booking and related costs. The purchase of travel insurance is not required in order to purchase any other product or service offered by HELM & RUDDER. Employees of HELM & RUDDER are not qualified or authorized to: answer technical questions about benefits, exclusions, and conditions of any of the insurance offered, nor evaluate the adequacy of the prospective insured’s existing insurance coverage. An additional charge applies for travel insurance selected. It is your responsibility to know what your insurance policy covers, and to put alternative coverage in place, if you wish to insure for conditions that are excluded by your policy. HELM & RUDDER CANNOT GUARANTEE THAT ANY INSURANCE PROVIDER WILL APPROVE COVERAGE FOR A CLAIM MADE UNDER THE INSURER'S POLICY AND MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS ABOUT THE EXTENT OF COVERAGE FOR ANY POLICY IT MAY OFFER OR QUOTE.

ALTERATIONS IN TRAVEL PLANS.

Alterations in itinerary may be necessitated for any number of reasons, including but not limited to severe weather at the sole discretion of HELM & RUDDER and subject to each supplier’s terms and conditions. If a property, supplier, activity, or area is deleted for any reason, it may be replaced with a comparable one.

PHOTOGRAPHS/VIDEOS.

HELM & RUDDER reserves the right to use any photograph/video taken at any event or during any travel activity, without the express written permission of those included within the photograph/video. HELM & RUDDER may use the photograph/video in publications or other media material produced, used or contracted by HELM & RUDDER, including but not limited to: brochures, invitations, books, newspapers, magazines, television, websites, etc. Any person desiring not to have his/her photo taken or distributed must contact info@helmandrudder.com in writing of his/her intentions and include a photograph.

NO COPYING OR EDITING.

No material from this website may be modified, copied, reproduced, republished, downloaded, posted, displayed, transmitted, performed, licensed, used to make a derivative work, transferred, sold or distributed in any way, without HELM & RUDDER’ prior written consent. You may not frame or mirror any material on this website on any other server or other location. Unauthorized use of any such material on any other website or computer environment or elsewhere is strictly prohibited.

PRIVACY POLICY.

At all times your information will be treated in accordance with Brownell’s Privacy Policy, which is incorporated by reference into this Agreement and can be viewed at www.helmandrudder.com/privacy.

RESERVATION OF RIGHTS: CHANGES TO THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS.

We reserve the right, in our sole discretion and for any reason whatsoever or for no reason, to change these Terms and Conditions at any time. Updated versions of the Terms and Conditions will be posted here on this website and are effective immediately on posting. Please check frequently, especially before you use this website, to see if these Terms and Conditions changed. Use of the website after any changes to the Terms and Conditions constitutes your consent to the changes.

ACCESS TO PASSWORD PROTECTED/SECURED AREAS.

Access to and use of password protected and/or secure areas of this website is restricted to authorized users only. Unauthorized individuals attempting to access these areas of this website may be subject to legal prosecution.

RIGHT TO CORRECT ERRORS/OFFERS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY.

We reserve the right to correct errors, and offers are subject to availability.
If any part of these Terms and Conditions is determined to be invalid or unenforceable pursuant to applicable law including, but not limited to, the warranty disclaimers and liability limitations set forth above, then the invalid or unenforceable provision will be deemed superseded by a valid, enforceable provision that most closely matches the intent of the original provision and agreement shall continue in effect. These Terms and Conditions (and any other terms and conditions referenced herein) constitute the entire agreement between the Customer and HELM & RUDDER with respect to travel bookings made with HELM & RUDDER by any means accessing such information, including its website, and it supersedes all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether electronic, oral, or written. A printed version of this agreement and of any notice given in electronic form shall be admissible in judicial or administrative proceedings based upon or relating to these Terms and Conditions to the same extent and subject to the same conditions as other business documents and records originally generated and maintained in printed form.

NON-DISCLOSURE AND CONFIDENTIALITY

Customer agrees that the Itinerary created by the HELM & RUDDER is considered Confidential Information. Customer agrees to keep in strict confidence the Itinerary created by HELM & RUDDER, with the exceptions stated in this Agreement. Customer may disclose the Itinerary to a third-party emergency contact before departure. Customer may also disclose the Itinerary for purposes of insurance coverage. 

With the exception of the terms stated in Section 9, HELM & RUDDER shall not disclose to any third-party any details regarding the business of the Customer, including, without limitation the travel parties’ names, drivers’ license numbers, passport numbers, dates of birth, Itineraries, or contact information, without written permission from Customer. 

COMMENT POSTINGS.

You are solely responsible for your own comments, the consequences of posting those comments, and the consequences of any reliance by you on the comments of others. By submitting your comment, you hereby give HELM & RUDDER the right, but not the obligation, to post, edit, exhibit, webcast, re-use, publish, reproduce, use, license, print, distribute or otherwise use your comment(s) and accompanying personal identifying and other information you provide via all forms of media now known or hereafter devised, worldwide, in perpetuity. HELM & RUDDER has no responsibility for the content of any messages, information or materials uploaded, posted, distributed, or transmitted by anyone who uses www.helmandrudder.com or other websites owned and operated by HELM & RUDDER. However, HELM & RUDDER retains the right, but not the obligation, in its sole discretion, to monitor, review, edit, delete or refuse to post any third-party content that HELM & RUDDER, in its sole discretion, deems to be objectionable, in violation of these Terms and Conditions, or for any other reason or no reason. HELM & RUDDER reserves the right to disclose any information as necessary to satisfy any law, regulation or governmental request.

The content of the website www.helmandrudder.com or other websites owned and operated by HELM & RUDDER, includes without limitation, copyrighted materials, trademarks and other proprietary information, text, software, photos, video, audiovisual recordings, graphics, music and sound. The entire contents of the website www.helmandrudder.com or other websites owned and operated by HELM & RUDDER are copyrighted as a collective work under the United States copyright laws and/or similar laws of other jurisdictions. HELM & RUDDER owns a copyright in the selection, coordination, arrangement and enhancement of such content, as well as in the content original to HELM & RUDDER. Third-party content providers own the copyright in content that is original to them.

E-MAIL UPDATES.

HELM & RUDDER may provide e-mail news service or other prompts to new content available. Your use of such content received through the e-mail news service will be subject to these Terms and Conditions.

ADDITIONS AND CHANGES.

You agree to review these Terms and Conditions on a regular basis to be aware of Changes (as defined herein) and any notices we may send to you. HELM & RUDDER has the right, at any time, to: (a) add, change or discontinue any aspect or feature of this website and any other data, including, but not limited to, content, availability and equipment needed for access or use; (b) impose, change or modify its Terms and Conditions applicable to your use of the this website, subscription services, or any part thereof; and/or impose, change or modify the terms and conditions of these Terms and Conditions (“Changes”). Such Changes shall be effective immediately upon notice by posting the Changes on HELM & RUDDER’ website or by any other method of notice it deems appropriate.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION.

USE OF THIS WEBSITE IS AT YOUR OWN RISK. THE CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND WITHOUT ANY WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. WE DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TITLE, OR NON-INFRINGEMENT. WE DO NOT WARRANT THAT THIS WEBSITE WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR-FREE, THAT DEFECTS WILL BE CORRECTED, OR THAT THIS WEBSITE OR THE SERVER THAT MAKES IT AVAILABLE ARE FREE OF VIRUSES OR OTHER HARMFUL ELEMENTS. WE DO NOT WARRANT OR MAKE ANY REPRESENTATION REGARDING ANY USE OF THE CONTENT OR ACCURACY. WE MAY MAKE CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS AT ANY TIME. YOU ASSUME THE ENTIRE COST OF ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE ARISING FROM THE USE OF THIS WEBSITE OR ITS CONTENT. WE MAKE NO WARRANTY THAT YOUR USE OF THE CONTENT WILL NOT INFRINGE THE RIGHTS OF OTHERS. WE ASSUME NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ERRORS OR OMISSIONS IN SUCH CONTENT.

All of the information on this website is current only as of the date it is posted.

SECURITY AND PRIVACY.

Any passwords used for registration on this website are for individual use only. You may not share your password with anyone. You are solely responsible for the security of your password and any use of the services by anyone else with whom you share your password. We may monitor your password and, at our sole discretion, require you to change it. If you use a password that we consider insecure, we may require it to be changed or we may end your account.

If you become involved in any violation of system security, we reserve the right to release your details to system administrators at other websites in order to assist them in resolving security incidents. We reserve the right to investigate all suspected violations of these Terms and Conditions.

We reserve the right to fully cooperate with any law enforcement authorities or court order requesting disclosure of the identity of anyone posting any e-mail messages, or publishing or otherwise making available any materials that are believed to violate these Terms and Conditions. BY ACCEPTING THIS AGREEMENT, YOU WAIVE AND HOLD HARMLESS HELM & RUDDER FROM ANY AND ALL CLAIMS RESULTING FROM ANY ACTION TAKEN BY HELM & RUDDER DURING OR AS A RESULT OF ITS INVESTIGATIONS AND/OR FROM ANY ACTIONS TAKEN AS A CONSEQUENCE OF INVESTIGATIONS BY EITHER HELM & RUDDER OR LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITIES.

You hereby certify that you are at least 18 years old. If you are under 18, please do not use www.helmandrudder.com or any of our other services. We do not knowingly collect any personally identifiable information from any person under 18 years old.

GOVERNING LAW AND ARBITRATION.

These Terms and Conditions will be governed and interpreted pursuant to the laws of the State of Texas, notwithstanding any conflicts of law. You specifically consent to personal jurisdiction in Texas in connection with any dispute between you and us. The parties to these Terms and Conditions each agree that, the exclusive venue for any dispute between the parties arising out of or relating to HELM & RUDDER or these Terms and Conditions will be in the state and federal courts in Travis County, Austin, Texas; provided that HELM & RUDDER may elect to bring an action against you in any applicable jurisdiction if you fail to submit to jurisdiction and venue in Austin, Texas, or to enforce any award or order. You irrevocably waive any rights to bring or participate in any class action related in any way hereto. If any part of these Terms and Conditions is unlawful, void, or unenforceable, that part will be deemed severable and will not affect the validity or enforceability of any remaining provisions. Use of the HELM & RUDDER website is unauthorized in any jurisdiction that does not give effect to all provisions of these Terms and Conditions, including, without limitation, this paragraph. These Terms and Conditions constitute the entire agreement relating to this subject matter. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any additional terms and conditions on this site will govern the items to which they apply. We may revise these Terms and Conditions at any time.

COPYRIGHT.

The information and images contained on this website, including downloadable files, are protected by copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study, research, criticism or review, as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced or reused for any other purpose without due acknowledgement and advance permission of the copyright holder.

The content on this website is provided for information purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of this information, HELM & RUDDER makes no guarantee and accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions it may contain. This website also offers links to other Internet sites which are outside of BHELM & RUDDER’s control. It is the responsibility of users to make their own decisions about the accuracy, reliability, and correctness of information contained on these sites.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to e-mail our customer service department at info@helmandrudder.com.

Copyright 2024 to present.

All Rights Reserved, HELM & RUDDER.