Even with the unpredictable events caused by COVID and high water this was one the most enjoyable vacations I have taken. Great Santana staff, great people to cruise and bike with, the most enjoyable biking I have done. Beautiful and challenging routes. Very happy with my rental bike. Thank you.
JB
JOHN B.
Danube River ride
Our first Santana trip was a wonderful experience. The boat support as we rode along the Danube was just the right amount of elegance. The Santana staff and the ship's crew were always attentive and helpful. Guided excursions in Prague, Vienna and Budapest completed the package perfectly.
KK
Kim K.
Trip of a lifetime
Trip of a lifetime.
In 2018 my husband and I traveled to French Polynesia with Santana Adventures. Although we had been on other bike tours, it was the first time with them.
One element that makes Santana stand out is their use of small, chartered cruise ships. Instead of going to different hotels each night, you can unpack and settle-in your private space for the trip. No van rides needed!
I love water and cruising, and this particular trip was on a Windstar ship (Windspirit) with real sails. Each evening as the ship departed into the glorious sunset the sails were unfurled as music played. And each time I felt emotional at how fortunate we were experiencing such beauty.
The rides were on a different island each day! What a way to see French Polynesia, a magical place! Bikes were taken ashore each day, we would ride, maybe stop for a swim, to see a pearl farm or musical event, and return to the ship for lunch. Some would go back out for more riding or another excursion. Others, like me, would enjoy the option of swimming off the ship. They had floats and stand up paddle boards to enjoy the warm, pristine ocean.
Being a first time participant I was amazed by the repeat travelers. In fact they were majority, some having been being on a dozen or more trips all over the world with them. Primarily tandem riders, but maybe about a dozen of us were single riders.
We are booked for two more trips and look forward to seeing more of the world from my bike and the deck of a ship!
TE
Todd E.
Santana Adventures…
Matt Harris with Santana Adventures made our day!!! We were able to switch Norway Trips from 2 to 1. It helped us out and another couple who were wanting to do the same 1 to 2. Santana was very understanding and accommodating. We can't wait for our Norway and Sweden adventure this coming June and July. Outstanding service!
RH
Roger H.
My wife and I have been traveling with…
My wife and I have been traveling with Bill and Jan, with Matt's behind the scenes guidance for 20 + years. Over 8 trips all over the world with 3 more booked in the next 2 years. Santana is the best by far. We have used the two other biking adventure companies ( the B's ) and they are fine, just not at the high level of Santana. The no changing hotels, the energy of Santana's customers, the itineraries available, the quality of the ships and the GPS route control makes for a great trip regardless of age or athletic ability. Try them, you will love it and never be disappointed. Roger and Katherine Hinds
GM
Gail M.
Notes during the pandemic
We have been traveling with Bill and Jan for about 30 trips. Each one is an adventure of a lifetime which is holding us over during the pandemic. True to form Bill has been absolutely on top of all the changes needed and in fact negotiated a lot of extras with the cruise companies for our substitute trips. Way to go Bill! Gail and Alvin
SN
Sonny & N.
Overall our Tahiti trip went very well…
Overall our Tahiti trip went very well and was enjoyable. The ship was beautiful and the crew was great. Would have been better to have a more detailed daily itinerary, explanation of items up front such as how the wine, beer and bar expenses would work, what's included and when. On prior trips we would have appreciated better knowledge upfront of what sites would be visited, especially when there were options for that specific day, to help with planning and expectations. Providing the routes on GPS chips is great now, saving upfront planning worries. Overall very enjoyable tandem cycling adventures.
MA
Mark
Couldn’t be happier with our tour experience
My wife and I participated in Santana’s French Polynesia tour. We would both agree that every aspect of the trip exceeded our expectations, from the route planning and support, quality of the on-board dining, extra activities besides cycling, travel logistics and communication. Additionally, one of the most satisfying aspects of the trip was the opportunity to become acquainted with so many wonderful people also participating in the tour. Though my wife suffered an injury to her foot during one of the daily rides that sidelined her from further riding during trip, she nevertheless felt well looked after and enjoyed the other aspects of the trip, especially since the ship was well suited for on-board activities and relaxing. We both look forward to future trips with Santana.