Before You Book

Cancellation & Changes

Clear terms. Fair policies. No surprises. Read this before you book.

Cancellation Policy

Luxury train journeys involve substantial advance payments to railway operators, hotels and permit authorities. The cancellation policy reflects these largely non-recoverable costs. You are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes cancellation cover.

Standard Cancellation Terms

Cancellation NoticeRefund
Before paying balance (deposit only)Deposit not refundable if you cancel voluntarily
More than 30 days before departure40% of total fare refunded
15-30 days before departure40% refunded (60% retained)
1-14 days before departure20% refunded (80% retained)
Day of departure / no-showNo refund
Note: These are reference terms based on New Orient Express operator policy. Specific terms vary by train and route. Your contract contains the exact policy for your booking.

Free Changes

Name Change

Change a traveller name free of charge up to 3 days before departure. No administration fee.

Date Change

Transfer your booking to a later departure where the operator permits and availability exists. May be subject to price differences between departure dates.

Cancellation by the Operator

If the operator cancels due to insufficient bookings, weather, government restrictions, or force majeure:

  • Full refund: All monies refunded within the period in your contract.
  • Alternative departure: Transfer to next available departure at no additional cost.

Travel Insurance — Mandatory

Your policy must cover: medical expenses and evacuation, trip cancellation and interruption, personal liability, baggage loss or damage. You must provide evidence before departure.

Our commitment: We never profit from cancellation fees. We always advocate for the maximum possible refund within the operator's terms. Any refund payable by the operator is passed to you in full.

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