Botanica's Small Group Land Journeys

Q. How large are the groups on your land tours?

A. Our personalised touring is in small groups of average around 20 people (maximum 30 unless otherwise stated). This gives you the opportunity to chat with the private garden owners or your Botanical Guide as you walk around the gardens. You will also enjoy the company of like-minded travellers who share similar interests to you, without large crowds. All our tours are exclusively English speaking for your convenience and enjoyment.

Q. Who is there to look after me?

A. On international tours a professional Tour Manager is on hand throughout your tour to provide extensive commentary on all the sights you will see. These experienced and knowledgeable people ensure everything runs smoothly and that you are well cared for. In Australia and New Zealand, Coach Captains lead our tours and private garden owners guide you around their gardens. On all tours and cruises you are accompanied by a Botanical Guide who will share with you their plant and botanical knowledge. Walk around the gardens with them, or take time to wander on your own.

Q. What is the standard of accommodation on tour?

A. Botanica carefully selects hotels based on their superior comfort (4-5 star or best available) and friendly service in special locations. 

Q. What are the meals like?

A. Our tours boast high quality dining experiences with all breakfasts and some lunches and dinners included. On some evenings we don’t include dinner so you can choose your own dining experience. On these nights, your Tour Manager or Botanical Guide will invite you to join them for dinner. Some tours feature cooking classes and special dinners in local restaurants.

Q. What standard of coaches do we travel in?

A. On all tours we use luxury coaches with enough spare seats to spread out. All coaches are of the highest safety standards and our coach drivers are experienced professionals.

Q. Are transfers included?

A. On the first and last day of your tour, we will meet you at the airport and transfer you to join the tour (unless otherwise stated in the itinerary).

Q. Who is the Botanical Guide on Tour?

A. All Botanical Guides work within a botanical profession, and are handpicked and trained to provide the highest level of care and education to our passengers. Please see each tour itinerary page to find out who is the specialist guide escorting each tour or cruise (please note, these guides are subject to change - please enquire at the time of booking). 

Botanica's River and Coastal Cruises

Q. What standard are the ships?

A. Our custom-designed European river and small coastal ships are often the newest and most innovative on the waterways. The onboard facilities are outstanding, providing you with the comforts of home on your holiday. Enjoy onboard facilities such as a fitness centre, hair and beauty salon, library and more. Each ship is unique, so please ask for more details.

Q. How relaxing is a cruise?

A. Cruising is the ultimate relaxation holiday. Each morning you’ll wake to a new destination to explore, which means you are not wasting time travelling from destination to destination. Once you check in, simply unpack and relax. In many places we will dock, you will be right in the heart of the town or city. On many evenings the boat will stay overnight in a town which will mean that you can explore on your own after dinner.

Q. What are the meals like onboard?

A. Our onboard restaurants serve great quality meals. Enjoy local and international cuisine with beer, wine and soft drink at evening meals.

Q. Can I choose different sightseeing activities or do I have to stay with the group?

A. Choose from a range of activities on many days of your cruise. Some options are garden related, others involve general sightseeing – perfect for couples travelling together who share different interests, and are all included in the tour price.

Q. Who is there to look after me?

A. Our crew are some of the friendliest in the business, with a high passenger to crew ratio you will always be well looked after.  All cruises have a Cruise Director and Botanical Guide to ensure your holiday is memorable.

Q. What is there to do in the evenings?

A. Most nights there will be onboard entertainment or lectures for you to enjoy.

Q. What are the facilities on the ships?

A. In Europe you will travel on APT coastal and river ships, which have been equipped to the highest standards. From the range of in-suite amenities, to world-class dining experiences; the spacious public facilities to sparkling entertainment, the experience on our ships was designed with our guests in mind. In your room you will have a TV and a choice of movies, and all ships have internet access.

* In other destinations, the ships have been carefully chosen to enhance your sightseeing experience. The onboard facilities will vary, please ask for details.