Charlotte Cardinals Italian Rugby Vacation

Rugby Riot Invites You

A Rugby Vacation to Italy

July 17 - 26, 2026 | From $2690* per person

Overview:

Open to players, family members and friends of the Charlotte Cardinals Rugby Club, prepare for an unforgettable rugby trip through Italy next July. This journey combines competitive rugby with iconic sightseeing and outdoor adventures, and includes four nights in Verona and four nights in Rome, with day-trips to Lake Garda, Venice and Florence along the way. The package includes eight nights lodging in comfortable four-star hotels, rugby matches and associated costs, daily breakfast, four dinners, private coach transportation, RugbyRiot coverage of the trip, a bilingual tour manager (one per bus), and all entrance fees, taxes and gratuities except those specially mentioned in the brochure/itinerary. While at least 40 are required to operate we can accommodate up to 120. Spread the word, this trip is one for the books. 

How to Join:

Pre-Registration Phase (until October 10): We’re gauging interest levels to determine if we can move forward. If at least 40 people show significant interest, we’ll proceed to the next phase.

Registration Phase: Participants will secure their spot with a $300 deposit due November 10, 2025. The remaining balance will be billed in three equal installments due January 17, March 17, and May 17, 2026, with departure on July 17, 2026.

*Pricing (per person):

  • 40-59 participants: $2,990
  • 60-79 participants: $2,890
  • 80-99 participants: $2,790
  • 100-119 participants: $2,690
Make the dream come true

Pre-Register Today

We need at least 40 to pre-register to make this trip happen. Pre-registration requires NO COMMITMENT on your part. It just helps us gauge interest levels and make sure that the tour can move forward. Pre-registration is open through October 10, 2025. Once 40 have pre-registered, registration will formally open and at that time a $300 non-refundable deposit will be required.

Itinerary Overview

Venice & Verona

In the north of Italy we’ll basecamp in Verona at the extraordinary four-star Crowne Plaza hotel. From here we’ll venture out to explore cities, climb castles and engage against some elite rugby competition in one of Europe’s best rugby pockets – Veneto. So get geared up and prepare for some unforgettable times in the Bel Paese. 

Lake Garda

Will we be bruised and beaten, or just bruised? Either way, a day at Italy’s most popular lake will offer the chance for some serious chill time, Italian style. Grab a cabana and hang out on the beach, tear some trails on a mountain bike, take a cable car high up into the Alps, or hop on a boat out to some epic islands. It’s a day for leisure and fun. Why rush? You’re in Italy after all.

Florence

From the north we travel to Rome, taking the same route that Hannibal and his elephants used a few thousand years ago as Carthage invaded Italy. Along the way we’ll stop in the cradle of the Renaissance: Florence. Check out the David, stroll through the medieval streets, or climb to the top of the world’s largest masonry dome.

Rome

With the A Roma Lifestyle luxury four-star hotel as our base, prepare for an experience of the Eternal City like no other. Visit the bloodstained Colosseum and the beautiful Sistine Chapel. Ride a Vespa, raft over waterfalls, eat insanely good food and become a part of a city that is second to none in what it has seen. And of course, prepare for combat against some Roman rugby competition.

Pricing, Payments & Cancellation

TRIP DETAILS

Pricing, Payments & Terms

Pricing

Final price dependent on number of trip participants. Note that the price is based on a double occupancy room.

from $2690

40-59 pax
$2990 per person
60-79 pax
$2890 per person
80 - 99 pax
$2790 per person
100 - 119 pax
$2690 per person
Single Room Fee - $990
Not discountable

Inclusions

Most items included except for items specifically mentioned in the itinerary (listed on brochure).

More Details

Four Nights Lodging in Verona
Crowne Plaza Verona ****
Four Nights Lodging in Rome
A Roma Lifestyle Hotel ****
Private Executive AC Bus Throughout
Qualified Bilingual Tour Manager
Private Guides
Headset (Whisper) System
Daily Breakfast and Four Dinners
Two Rugby Matches and All Associated Expenses

T&C

This trip's Terms & Conditions are different than our regular T&C. Please follow link below for more info.

Our Policy

$300 Tour Deposit
Non-refundable upon payment
Full Refund (less deposit)
Fully Refundable up Until 100 Days Prior to Departure
50% Refund (less deposit)
For Cancellations between 100-50 Days Prior to Departure
0% Refund
For Cancellations within 50 Days of Tour

FAQs

01How do I register and what is the process?

Top of the page, click “Pre-Register Now”
We are taking pre-registrations (no commitment) until October 10, 2026. The trip is contingent on at least 40 persons pre-registering. Once at least 40 have pre-registered, registration will begin. At that time $300 non-refundable deposits will be due.

02What about flights?

Meet us there
This is a land-only trip, meaning there is no air package available. We have arrival and departure parameters that must be followed.
Arrival – July 18
Please arrive at Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) no later than 11:00 AM on July 18th. That means you’ll need to catch a flight out of the USA on July 17th. On the 18th your guides and buses will meet you at 12:00 PM and depart immediately for Venice. If you arrive later than 11:00 AM, for whatever reason, you will have to meet the group in Venice.
Departure – July 26 
Book flights out of Rome (FCO) as early as you would like.

03What is included?

Inclusions

Rugby Riot coverage of the tour, with one (1) Rugby Riot staff member joining

8 nights lodging in four-star hotels (double occupancy rooms)

Private A/C deluxe motor coach throughout

One professionally trained tour manager on each bus (max 56 pax per bus) Daily breakfast

Four three-course Italian dinners (no choice of menus and no beverages included)

Exclusions

Airfare (TBD – airfare becomes available in September, 2025)

Daily lunch and four dinner

Beverages at included dinners

Travelers insurance (available for purchase through tour agency)

Excursions listed with pricing in itinerary (see brochure here)

04What is the payment schedule and what is the cancellation policy?

See Below

Participants will secure their spot with a $300 deposit due November 10, 2025. The remaining balance will be billed in three equal installments due January 17, March 17, and May 17, 2026, with departure on July 17, 2026. 

If you need to cancel, the policy is simple. The $300 deposit is always non-refundable. The remaining balance is fully refundable up until 100 days prior to departure. From 100 – 50 days prior to departure, the balance is 50% refundable, and within 50 days of the tour, the balance is 100% non-refundable. The only exception to this policy is if the person cancelling is able to find someone to replace them. In this case there will be a $250 name change fee.

A Caribbean Cruise with the Longest Johns

The Longest Johns Cordially Invite You

A Sailing Cruise through the Glorious Caribbean

March 10 - 18, 2024 / from $7495 per person

PRE-REGISTRATION OPEN UNTIL MAY 23, 2023. ACT FAST, SELLING FAST!

Imagine. . . a world-class sailing experience through the British Virgin Islands, aboard one of the world’s finest sailing yachts, with nightly entertainment provided by the Longest Johns – a dream come true!

In an exclusive partnership with US-based touring outfit ProRome Tours, the Longest Johns look forward to welcoming you onboard the Sea Cloud II for a week of song, fellowship and adventure next spring through the beautiful Caribbean.

Up through May 23, 2023 we are taking pre-registrations for this once in a lifetime voyage. We need to receive at least 80 pre-registrations, so sign up today to help make this dream come true! There are only 40 double occupancy cabins available, so act fast!

Make the dream come true

Pre-Register Today

Pre-registration is open through May 23, 2023. The operation of the trip is contingent on enough persons registering to fill the cabins: 80. Once 80 have pre-registered, registration will close and an invitation along with a link to formally register will be sent to each pre-registrant by email.

The Caribbean
Sea Cloud Cruises
The Art of Sailing

The Sea Cloud II

Our vessel is the Sea Cloud II, a three-mast barque complete with more than 3000 square meters of sail spread across 23 unique sails. Built to resemble the great ships of the old world, the Sea Cloud II does indeed hide in its hold two powerful diesel engines, designed to “Roll us Along” should the winds of the sunny Caribbean fail us.

Live Performances

Daily a capella performances led by the Longest Johns and a series of fascinating stories on the incredible history of maritime adventures will permeate the daily program.

Exclusive Itinerary

Sandy beaches, uninhabited island excursions and tours through the wonders of the Caribbean – created by both man and nature – make this itinerary unique and truly once in a lifetime.

A World-Class Vessel

Built in 2001, the Sea Cloud II perfectly combines spaciousness for up to 94 passengers with the lifestyle of a private yacht. Private luxury cabins, superb endless food and more await.

Fellowship and Fun

Sea Shanties have the incredible power of bringing people together. Through the music of the Longest Johns, together we will relive epic stories and build new and lasting friendships.

A Glance at the Itinerary

This incredible journey features one night at a four-star resort in St. Maarten and seven nights aboard the Sea Cloud II.

On March 10 we will rendezvous at the beautiful and all-inclusive four-star Maho Beach Resort in St. Maarten. That evening we will enjoy incredible sea views at a private welcome dinner hosted by The Longest Johns.

The next day we will board the Sea Cloud II, settle into our cabins, and join the captain on the lido deck for welcome cocktails as we put out to sea. Following a five-course welcome dinner we’re back out on deck for our first private concert with the Longest Johns. With the wind in our sails, we’re off to the British Virgin Islands!

For two days we will explore the channels, bays and islands once ruled by privateers and pirates. We will explore sandy beaches, hidden coves and colorful seaside villages. From Jost van Dyke to Virgin Gorda, we will experience a hidden world of stories and songs, with sea shanties led by the Longest Johns to keep us going along the way.

We then sail southwards, entering the Lesser Antilles and into the French territory of the “Îles des Saintes”, where we will explore the incredible beautiful islands of Terre-de-Haut and Dominica. Here we will explore the natural beauty and experience the cultural influences of the Old World, evident in the art, architecture and customs found here. 

Our last stop is Saint Barthélemy, a volcanic island fully encircled by shallow reefs, where we will marvel at elegant superyachts, browse in the shops for precious items, or enjoy a sundowner in the picturesque harbor surrounded by clusters of high class bars and restaurants. You may even consider snorkeling in the reefs before joining us on board for a farewell dinner and concert with the Longest Johns. 

TRIP DETAILS

Cabin Availability and Pricing

Payments

Below is the payment schedule.

$500 / Deposit due @ registration

50% Installment 1
due September 1, 2023
50% Installment 2
due November 1, 2023
We accept all major credit cards, checks, cash and bank transfers.

Cabins and Pricing

All cabins are double occupancy.

Prices are / per-person

Deluxe Cabins, $7495: 24 Available
Cabin Deck, 215-226 sf, Category D/E
Deluxe Cabins, $7995: 2 Available
Promenade Deck, 215 sf, Category C
Junior Suites, $9895: 14 Available
Promenade Deck, 247 sf, Category B

Cancellation

If you cancel, this policy applies.

Our Policy

180 days or more before tour
Full refund less $500 deposit
180-120 days before tour
50% Refund
Within 120 Days of Tour
No Refund

What's Included

One Night in St. Maarten

One night (March 10) lodging at the four-star Sonesta Maho Beach Resort in St. Maarten. Five-course dinner and bar package included.

Seven Nights Aboard the Sea Cloud II

Seven nights (March 11 - 18) lodging in cabin of your choosing aboard the Sea Cloud II.

All Meals and Touring Programs

All meals aboard the Sea Cloud II, free-flowing wine and beer, and all touring programs listed in the touring program. See brochure for full list of inclusions and exclusions.

01Registration Process

Top of the page, click “Pre-Register Now”
We are taking pre-registrations until May 23, 2023. The trip is contingent on the ship filling, so once 80 persons register the trip will move forward and a notice will be sent out to all of the pre-registrants. No payment is required to pre-register and your payment information will not be collected.
When you register please select the cabin that you would like occupy.

02Arrival and Departure

March 10 – 18, 2024
When we send you an invitation to formally register for the trip we will include flight information. Please arrange flights into Saint Martin on March 10, 2024 and out of Saint Martin on March 18, 2024. You should fly in and out of Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). 

03What is included?

8 Nights Lodging, Most Meals and Tour Excursions
We have included one night lodging in St. Maarten and seven nights aboard the Sea Cloud II in the cabin of your choosing. The welcome dinner on March 10 in St. Maarten is included as are all meals aboard the Sea Cloud II. All tour excursions listed in the brochure are also included. Also included in the price are daily performances with the Longest Johns. Please see the brochure for a full list of inclusions and exclusions.

04What is not included?

Flights, Travel Insurance and Extras
ProRome Tours can help arrange your airfare as well as your travel insurance. When we send you a formal invitation to register we will also include information on how to book flights and travel insurance. Please note that meals on land are not included, as well as anything not explicitly listed in the brochure. Please see the brochure for a full list of inclusions and exclusions.

05What is the payment schedule and what is the cancellation policy?

See Below

When you formally register you will be prompted to pay a $500 deposit to hold your place on the trip. This amount is non-refundable.

The first 50% installment is due on September 1, 2023 and the second installment is due on November 1, 2023.

In the event that you must cancel, the $500 deposit is non-refundable. The remaining balance is fully refundable up until 180 days before departure (September 12, 2023) and the 50% refundable from 180 days until 120 days before departure (November 11, 2023). Within 120 days of departure (after November 11, 2023) the trip is non-refundable.

We highly recommend travel insurance for each traveler. We work exclusively with Allianz and will send you a complimentary quote upon your formal registration.

A Journey through France

Saints and Sailors

A Journey through France

May 2 – 11, 2023 / $4900.00 land-only

This journey will immerse you in the vast cultural and Catholic heritage of the “Eldest Daughter of the Church”, France. Along the way you will visit Paris, Lisieux, the beaches at Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel, Rouen and Chartres.

On this trip you can expect a daily private Mass, exquisite four-star hotels and beautiful religious guesthouses, and a variety of private tours and experiences crafted carefully by your hosts.

Your hosts on this journey are Matt and Liz Marcolini and Jerry and Mary Lenaburg. Parents first, entrepreneurs and public speakers second, you can expect a journey that is not only fun and engaging, but filled with incredible lessons on life, culture and living out one’s faith in the Third Millennium.

This trip is limited to 35 guests and registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Adults, children over the age of sixteen and babes in arms are welcome!

Covid-19 Travel Requirements? None!

There are currently no required Covid-19 vaccines or testing requirements in place in order to visit France. If you have any questions or concerns please contact us.

Highlights

Paris

This trip features three full days in the City of Light. Our hotel of choice is the magnificent Hotel Bedford, a family-owned luxury hotel in the heart of the city. From here we will visit Paris’s greatest sites and enjoy some magnificent experiences, such as a world-class cooking class and a dinner river cruise!

Normandy

From Paris our private coach will take us north into Normandy. Our base here is Lisieux, the birthplace and burial-place of the “Little Flower”, Saint Therese of Lisieux. Here we will allow Saint Therese to work in our hearts. In Normandy we’ll also visit the D-Day beaches and the American Cemetery!

Mont Saint-Michel

Next up, Mont Saint-Michel. This great island is dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, who in the 8th century appeared to a local bishop and asked that the island be dedicated to God. Ever since this has been one of Europe’s greatest pilgrimage destinations!

The,South,View,Of,Cathedral,Of,Our,Lady,Of,Chartres,
Rouen & Chartres

On our way to Chartres we’ll visit the city of Rouen, where Saint Joan of Arc was held captive and later martyred. We’ll see the Cathedral of Rouen and then depart for Chartres, our final destination! Get ready for cobblestones, great food and a stained-glass class!

TRIP DETAILS

Pricing, Payments & Cancellation

Payments

Below is the payment schedule.

$200.00 / due @ registration

$2350
due November 15, 2022
$2350
due January 15, 2023
$1200 Single Room Supplement
due January 15, 2023

Regular Price

See brochure for full list of inclusions.

$4900.00 / per-person

Beautiful four-star hotels
Private transportation
Exquisite four-course dinner daily
Private bilingual tour manager
Unique touring program and private events
All tours and entrance fees
Daily private Catholic Mass

Cancellation

If you cancel, this policy applies.

Our Policy

100 Days or More before Tour
Full refund less $200.00 deposit
100-75 Days before Tour
50% Refund
Within 75 Days of Tour
No Refund

Planning Checklist

Register

In order to register simply fill out the form at the top this page! Your place on the trip is then secure!

Purchase Travel Insurance

We will send you an insurance quote as soon as you register. We strongly suggest that everyone purchases travel insurance.

Upload Passport Information

Apply as soon as possible. NB - Passports that expire within six months of the travel dates are not valid to enter Europe.

Flight Information

We suggest that you arrange your flights through ProRome Tours. If you plan on using Miles or Points towards your flights, please arrange your flights directly with the airline.

We suggest that you arrive in Paris no later than 12:00 PM on May 3, and depart from Paris no earlier than 10:00 AM on May 11.

Meet Your Hosts

Meet the ProRome Team

  • Client Logo Image
  • Client Logo Image
  • Client Logo Image

Additional Trip Information

Registration, Payments and Cancellation

In order to register please click on the “Register Now” button at the top of this webpage. We will then process your registration and contact you by email with more information.

For questions regarding cancellation, please refer to our Terms and Conditions found here: https://prorome.com/terms-conditions/

Weather and Packing

The Weather 

You can expect mild weather in France in May. High temperatures will average in the mid-60s (Paris) and lower-60s (Normandy), with lows in the lower-50s. Do expect a few rain showers throughout the course of the trip. 

Tip: Hope for the best, plan for the worst. A winter hat might very well come in handy! 

Packing 

Please remember to bring one rain jacket, an umbrella and at least two pairs of shoes – a pair for more formal occasions and a pair for touring. Although we’ve eliminated as much walking as possible, French city-centers are more often than not pedestrian only. We will be walking (on average) two to three miles each day. Make sure your “tour shoes” are broken-in and comfortable. We would also suggest bringing one heavy jacket for those evenings that you might enjoy strolling through town. 

Tip: Many seasoned travelers pack the essentials in their carry-on bag, in case their luggage happens to get lost or delayed. 

Tour Dress and Dinner Dress Suggestions

Tour Dress

In France style is everything. You’ll find that the the French dress incredibly well and you’ll want to dress up yourself. That being said, comfort is paramount. We will be walking a lot and will be constantly getting on and off the bus. The most important thing to keep in mind is your feet. 

Tip: Worn-in walking shoes – preferably water proof – will serve you faithfully. Moleskin and baby powder might also come in handy!

Dinner Dress 

We call the dinner dress code “country club casual” or “smart casual. ” That means something like collared shirts and non-jeans pants for men, and a casual dress or pants with a nice top for women. These suggestions are by no means mandatory, they are solely meant to be taken as humble advice if you would like to fit in with the French culture. They like to dress well!

Tip: A jacket that can be dressed up and dressed down is a spring traveler’s best friend.

Group Meals

The Meals

Daily breakfast and daily dinner are included in the tour package. Your dinner menus have been selected by ProRome. You can expect four bountiful courses at each dinner. Beverages are not included, however do not be surprised if your waiter brings some complimentary wine! 

Tip: If you are allergic to something simply inform the tour director at the beginning of the trip. 

Tipping and Gratuities

Tips and gratuities are not included in the price. We suggest 30-50 euro per person tip for both the bus driver and the tour manager. This can be offered in person at the end of the tour.

If you feel inclined to leave a tip for the housekeeping at the hotel, a few euro left in your room is more than sufficient.

Tipping is not required nor expected in restaurants, taxis or bars.

Dietary and Health Restrictions

There are no dietary restrictions. Vegetarian or vegan, gluten-free or celiac, we work only with restaurants and caterers who have ample options for you.

Regarding health, please review a clause from our Terms and Conditions.

ProRome Tours expects you to make a realistic assessment of your health. All Participants are expected to be in active good health, to enjoy traveling as part of a group, and to be ready to experience cultural differences with grace. Walking and climbing stairs are required in many hotels and airports, to board the aircraft, and as part of many excursions. Prior to traveling, we highly recommend visiting your personal physician for a check-up, so that you may discuss your ability to participate in this type of journey. For the latest recommendations on specific health precautions for the areas you will visit, consult your physician and the Centers for Disease Control. Any physical condition requiring special attention, diet, or treatment should be reported in writing when the reservation is made. We will make reasonable efforts to accommodate Participants with special needs; however, we cannot accommodate wheelchairs. If you require a slower pace, extra assistance, or the use of a cane or walking stick, arrangements will be made for private touring at each destination, if necessary, at the discretion of our Tour staff. Any extra cost for such arrangements will be the responsibility of the Participant. If you would like to forgo some of the scheduled sightseeing to rejuvenate and relax, please feel free to do so at any time.

Placing Calls in France

If you are calling from an American phone number, you must dial the international “dial out” code first, which is “00”, or simply the “+” symbol. You must then dial the country code (USA is 1, France is 33), followed by the number. 

NB – Remember to CONTACT YOUR SERVICE provider a few days before the trip and activate international calling on your phone.

Luggage Service at Hotels

Porterage is not included in the price. If you require a porter to deliver your luggage to your room, please inform your tour manager prior to arrival at the hotel.

Crisis Management

The following scenarios are typical “crisis” situations that may occur while on tour France and how to best prevent and manage them. Please read. If you would like to read our full plan please download it here: https://prorome.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/ProRome-Crisis-Management-Plan-.pdf. 

You Get Lost

This is a common occurrence. First of all, stay put. Most folks who get really lost do so by running in the wrong direction! Your tour manager will find you if you stay put. If you have a cell phone, please call your tour manager, or any other group member you may be in contact with. If you cannot dial “+” on your phone, dial “00” followed by “1”, followed by the number. If after 30 minutes you are unable to reach your tour manager and cannot find the group, proceed to the nearest Taxi stand and have a cab take you back to the hotel. The hotel address can be found below. If you do not see a cab stand nearby, enter the nearest hotel and ask the concierge to call you a cab. Upon arrival at the hotel please call your tour manager and let him know that you have returned to the hotel. 

You Lose Your Phone, Wallet or Passport 

Nine times out of ten, this can be prevented. Theft is not uncommon in Rome, so remember to keep your valuables as protected as possible. Fanny packs under the shirt are ideal. If you use a purse or backpack, hold it in front especially in crowds. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on those around you as well. If you do lose your phone, wallet or passport, inform your tour manager immediately. We will then inform the local authorities and say a prayer to St. Anthony! The US embassy in Rome can turn around new passports within a few hours, but expect a hefty fee – 500 euro!

You Get Injured 

Again, nine times out of ten we can prevent personal injuries by following rules and guidelines that are put in place. That includes never standing while the bus is moving, only crossing the street at crosswalks, and wearing sturdy walking shoes and keeping your eyes on the road. If you do experience an injury, inform your tour manager immediately. If necessary, we will arrange emergency transportation to the nearest hospital for care.

Dehydration and Fatigue

It is crucially important to begin hydration at least three days prior to departure, and to increase your electrolyte intake as well. Touring in autumn can be deceiving, because while you may not feel thirsty in 60 degree weather, your body will nonetheless require lots of water. Always carry a water bottle with you. If you do experience dizziness, a fever or sudden fatigue, notify your tour manager immediately and sit still. If necessary, we will arrange emergency transportation to the nearest hospital for care.

Reading Suggestions

Coming soon.

Trip Patron

St. Therese of Lisieux – the Little Flower – is one of history’s greatest saints. As our trip patron, we will pray to St. Therese before and during the trip, asking this incredible saint to protect us through our journey!

“God would never inspire me with desires which cannot be realized; so in spite of my littleness, I can hope to be a saint.”

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