Cookie Policy

Connoisseur Travel Services Limited ("we", "us", or "our") is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring transparency in how we use cookies and similar technologies on our website www.connoisseur-travel.co.uk (the "Site"). This Cookie Policy explains what cookies are, the types of cookies we use, why we use them, and how you can manage them. It forms part of our broader Privacy Policy, which provides more details on data protection.


As an independent travel agency based in Edinburgh, Scotland, we use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, improve our services, and provide personalised travel recommendations.


By using our Site, you consent to the use of cookies as described below. You can withdraw consent at any time by adjusting your browser settings or using our cookie management tool (if available).


1. What Are Cookies?


Cookies are small text files stored on your device (e.g., computer, tablet, or mobile phone) when you visit a website. They help websites remember your preferences, track usage, and function more effectively. We also use similar technologies like web beacons, pixels, and local storage.

Some cookies are essential for the Site to work, while others help us analyse traffic or deliver targeted content. Cookies do not typically contain personal data unless you provide it (e.g., during a booking).


2. Types of Cookies We Use


We classify cookies based on their purpose and duration. Below is a summary of the categories we may use:

Category Purpose Examples Duration
These are necessary for the Site's core functionality, such as navigating pages, accessing secure areas (e.g., booking forms), and maintaining your session. Without them, the Site would not work properly. Session ID cookies for form submissions; security cookies to prevent fraud. Session-based (deleted when you close your browser) or persistent (up to 1 year).
Analytics Cookies These help us understand how visitors use the Site, including which pages are most popular, how long users stay, and referral sources. This data allows us to improve the Site and tailor travel suggestions. We use third-party services like Google Analytics. _ga (Google Analytics: tracks unique visitors); _gid (session tracking). Up to 2 years.
Functionality Cookies These enable the Site to remember your preferences (e.g., language or location settings) and provide enhanced features, such as remembering search filters for destinations or cruise types. Preference cookies for site layout or saved searches. Up to 1 year
Marketing Cookies These are used to deliver personalized advertisements based on your interests (e.g., promotions for luxury cruises if you've viewed similar content). They may track your activity across sites via third-party networks. We only use these with your consent. Ad-serving cookies from partners like Google Ads or Facebook Pixel (if integrated for retargeting). Up to 2 years

We do not use cookies for tracking sensitive information, such as health or financial data, beyond what's necessary for bookings.


3. How We Use Cookies


  • To Provide Services: Essential cookies ensure smooth navigation and secure booking processes for holidays, cruises (e.g., with Fred. Olsen or Ambassador), and tours.
  • To Analyze and Improve: Analytics cookies help us optimize the Site, understand user behavior, and develop better travel experiences.
  • To Personalise: Functionality and marketing cookies allow us to suggest relevant deals, such as exclusive offers for Edinburgh departures or bespoke itineraries.
  • Third-Party Cookies: Some cookies are placed by our trusted partners (e.g., Google for analytics or payment gateways for secure transactions). These are governed by their own policies, and we encourage you to review them.


All cookie data is processed in compliance with the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018. For more on how we handle the personal data collected via cookies, refer to our Privacy Policy.


4. Cookie Consent and Management


When you first visit the Site, you may see a cookie consent banner allowing you to accept or reject non-essential cookies. You can:


  • Accept All: Enable all cookies for the best experience.
  • Reject Non-Essential: Limit to essential cookies only.
  • Customise: Select specific categories.


To manage cookies at any time:


  • Use your browser settings: Most browsers (e.g., Chrome, Safari, Firefox) allow you to view, delete, or block cookies. For instructions, search "manage cookies [your browser name]".
  • Opt-out of specific tools: For Google Analytics, visit Google's opt-out page. For advertising cookies, check the Network Advertising Initiative's opt-out tool.
  • Clear your browser cache: This will remove stored cookies.


Note: Disabling cookies may affect Site functionality, such as preventing form submissions or personalized recommendations.


5. Third-Party Cookies and Links


Our Site may include links to third-party sites (e.g., cruise line websites or social media). These sites have their own cookie policies, and we are not responsible for their practices. When you leave our Site, review the privacy and cookie policies of those providers.


6. Data Security and Retention


We use secure methods to store and transmit cookie data. Cookies are retained only as long as necessary for their purpose (see table above) or as required by law. We do not sell cookie data.


7. Children's Privacy


We do not knowingly place cookies on devices of children under 16 without parental consent. Our services are not targeted at children.


8. Changes to This Policy


We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in our practices, technology, or legal requirements. Significant changes will be notified via the Site or email. Your continued use of the Site after updates constitutes acceptance.


9. Contact Us


If you have questions about this Cookie Policy or our use of cookies, please contact: