General
Do your buses have seatbelts?
Because seatbelts are not mandatory in coach buses, some of our buses are not equipped with them. About one-third of our fleet offers seatbelts. Since we do not assign buses until 24 hours prior to the trip, we cannot tell you if your bus will have seatbelts.
Does the bus have a restroom?
Yes, all our buses have a lavatory to be used only for emergency. The safest place for you to be while your bus is moving is in your seat. Our Drivers will make every effort to provide a rest stop every 2-3 hours. Children should be accompanied by an adult when they must use the lavatory.
Do your buses have charging outlets?
Because charging outlets are a newer technology, only some of our buses are equipped with them. About one-third of our fleet offers charging outlets. Since we do not assign buses until 24 hours prior to the trip, we cannot tell you if your bus will have outlets.
Can infants/toddlers travel on your buses? In car seats?
Infants and toddlers are welcome to travel on our buses. You may bring a car seat onboard but the bus may or may not have seatbelts to secure it. A cost may or may not be associated with bringing an infant/toddler on board; please discuss with your Travel Advisor. Please note that some of our motorcoaches are equipped with either lap belts or 3 point seat belts and may not be compatible with your car seat. If the car seat is not being used it must be placed in the luggage compartment underneath the bus.
Are pets allowed on board?
Our policy prohibits animals on board our motorcoaches; however, service animals as defined by the ADA, accompanying customers with disabilities, are welcome to travel on Starr motorcoaches. Click here for our policy regarding service animals
How often are your buses inspected?
Our buses are inspected by the NJMVC every six months. At the beginning of EACH trip, our Drivers complete a 30 point pre-trip inspection. They check brakes, lights, steering mechanics, horn, tires, and all signals. In addition, our Mechanics “spot check” at least 2 buses per day. During these “spot checks”, our Mechanics complete the exact 70 point inspection performed by the NJMVC.
Do you have a lost-and-found?
When we clean our buses after every trip, if any items are left behind, our staff will turn them into our lost and found department. You can call to check on items left behind Mon-Fri from 9am-5pm. Call 609-587-0626. Starr is not responsible for any personal items left behind.
Do you repair your buses in-house?
Yes. Our maintenance staff is fully trained in maintaining our buses for safe and comfortable travel. Our 10,000 square foot facility offers state of the art equipment and parts for the optimal operation of our coaches.
Are you hiring?
We are always looking for talented individuals to join our team. For current openings, please click here: https://www.starrtours.com/careers/
Are alcoholic beverages allowed on board?
Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on our public tours. Alcoholic beverages are permitted on chartered motorcoaches with a prepaid security deposit. Should individuals become unruly or distracting to the Driver, the Driver will stop the vehicle until the situation is remedied. Coolers must be stored under the bus as aisles need to be kept open and passable at all times. Alcohol may be stored onboard the coach as long as it is unopened and secure. No glass containers will be allowed onboard. Any damage to the vehicle caused by the chartering party will be subject to additional charges in addition to a forfeited security deposit. We thank you for ending your trip with the coach interior in the same condition in which it started.
Are food and non-alcoholic beverages allowed on board?
We do allow food and non-alcoholic beverages onboard but we ask that you keep your area clean and throw away any trash.You may remove your mask while eating or drinking but when you are finished, please put your mask back on. Coolers must be stored under the bus as aisles need to be kept open and passable at all times. We thank you for ending your trip with the coach interior in the same condition in which it started.
Is smoking permitted on board the bus?
In accordance with the law, smoking (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vaping) is not permitted aboard buses. To be clear, all tobacco products are prohibited from use aboard the motorcoach.
Do you offer any discounts?
We price our trips fairly and consistently with the attempt to offer our customers the best travel value for their dollar.
We do offer a MILITARY Discount – Save 5%
For: U.S. Active or retired Military, Disabled Veterans and Military Reservists
• Does not apply to family members (only the individual)
• Military discounts cannot be combined with any other discounts/coupons
• Cannot apply to existing bookings unless approved by a manager
• Excludes Fly and Cruise trips
• Must provide Military ID# at the time of booking
• The maximum amount of the discount on any one trip is $50
What size buses do you have?
Our fleet consists of 45 foot, 56 passenger buses
Do your buses have WiFi?
Our WiFi service can accommodate basic Internet browsing and checking and sending e-mails. Since this is a shared service with limited bandwidth, you should refrain from streaming video, audio, file downloads and emailing large attachments as a courtesy to other passengers. In addition, overall connection speed may be affected by the number of WiFi users on the bus.
Ask your driver for the WiFi password.
Charter Bus Rental
When should I book my bus?
As soon as you know your plans, you should reserve your motorcoach. Our inventory is limited and although we will do our best to accommodate you, some days (even months to a year in advance) we may be sold out.
What size buses do you have?
Our fleet consists of 45 foot, 56 passenger buses
Do your buses have WiFi?
Our WiFi service can accommodate basic Internet browsing and checking and sending e-mails. Since this is a shared service with limited bandwidth, you should refrain from streaming video, audio, file downloads and emailing large attachments as a courtesy to other passengers. In addition, overall connection speed may be affected by the number of WiFi users on the bus.
Ask your driver for the WiFi password.
Does the motorcoach have video capability to watch a movie?
Yes. All motorcoaches have DVD players and a license for you to play the movie(s) of your choice
What if I have an emergency and the office is closed? (Mon- Fri before 9am, after 5PM / Weekends)
We have a manager on call who can be reached 24 hours a day. This number is for emergencies only. This includes, but is not limited to: last minute cancellation, flight delays and emergency bus relief. This number is not for confirmations, Driver information, or quote requests. (609) 203-3805
Can I book a charter bus trip online?
After requesting a quote online at https://www.starrtours.com/bus-charters/bus-charter-quote/, you will be able to confirm and pay for your trip.
How can I pay for my charter bus trip?
Starr prefers payment by check or money order but accepts all major credit cards by phone (609-587-0626). All credit card payments will be assessed a 3% processing fee. You can also pay online using the link that was sent to you when your trip was initially quoted. Cash is also accepted if paid in person at our office. When mailing a check or money order, please identify the group name, contact person, Quote/Contract number, and trip date so we can ensure that your payment is processed correctly.
Can I request a specific Driver?
Driver requests must be made in writing and submitted at least 14 days prior to trip departure. Driver requests are not guaranteed.
Should we tip our Driver? How much?
Gratuities for Drivers are not included in the price of your trip. If you wish to extend your appreciation, guidelines are $3.00-$5.00 per person per day or a percentage of the price of your charter. We will be happy to add this onto your charter cost in advance if this is more convenient for you and your group.
What if our bus breaks down on a trip?
Starr will work hard to ensure your group is back on the road as soon as possible. We are part of the International Motorcoach Group (IMG), a partnership between many of the top bus companies across the country. We are committed to resolving the mechanical issue as quickly as possible. Additionally, we have both a 24 hour technician and manager on call who are committed to doing what is necessary to get your group to their destination.
How do I get a copy of Starr’s Certificate of Liability?
Please request this from your Charter Representative.
What if I have to make changes to my itinerary?
To ensure adequate driver preparation, we require a detailed finalized itinerary listing all stops with complete addresses (including cross streets) and anticipated timing at least 7 days prior to departure. For your safety, Starr will operate your trip in accordance with US/Canada DOT Hours of Service Regulations. Any changes or modifications to the itinerary must be submitted to Starr prior to your trip to ensure these safety regulations are not violated. The Starr Driver will be furnished with your final itinerary and will be instructed to follow it. The driver does not have the authority to deviate from the itinerary.
How do I prepare a good itinerary?
To ensure adequate driver preparation, we require a detailed finalized itinerary listing all stops with complete addresses (including cross streets) and anticipated timing. For your safety, Starr will operate your trip in accordance with US/Canada DOT Hours of Service Regulations. Any changes or modifications to the itinerary must be submitted to Starr prior to your trip to ensure these safety regulations are not violated. The Starr Driver will be furnished with your final itinerary and will be instructed to follow it. The Driver does not have the authority to deviate from the itinerary.
When is my final itinerary due?
The itinerary is due at least 14 days prior to departure.
What if I have to cancel my charter bus?
A full refund will be given if cancellation is received 21 days or more prior to departure date. Trips cancelled 20 days to 14 days prior to trip date will forfeit their deposit. Trips cancelled 13 days to 48 hours prior to trip date will be charged 50% of the charter price. Trips cancelled less than 48 hours prior to departure will be charged 100% of the charter price.
How do I reserve a charter bus?
A 10% deposit (minimum $200 per bus) is required to confirm your charter. All charters must be paid in full 21 days prior to departure date. Contractual agreements may have different terms.
How does Starr determine its charter bus pricing?
Pricing is based on the amount of miles traveled, number of hours and availability of coaches. All charter pricing is pending receipt of an accurate and timed itinerary. Starr reserves the right to revise pricing based on times, date, mileage or any detail that has changed since the initial inquiry or contract. In addition, pricing is based on availability; the price quotation is valid for 30 days from the original date of quotation. Starr reserves the right to adjust price prior to receiving a deposit for the trip.
What does my charter price include?
All charter pricing includes anticipated highway tolls based on the itinerary submitted. Parking, entrance fees, and other miscellaneous expenses may or may not be included as specified in the charter details. Charters that extend longer than contracted for will be charged an hourly overtime rate of $65.
Where does the driver stay during my multi-day charter?
Unless specified otherwise, the chartering party is responsible to reserve and pay for a single hotel room for each driver. The hotel location should be at or in close proximity to where the group is staying overnight.
Casino Runs
Are children under 18 allowed on casino buses?
Children may ride the bus to the casinos but only those 21 and over with a valid form of Photo ID will be eligible to receive a casino bonus.
Is my ticket refundable?
All tickets are non-refundable.
Do your buses run on Holidays?
Call us at 609-587-0626 ext 0 for our holiday schedules.
Tours – Domestic Motorcoach
Is it safe to leave my car at one of your departure locations?
Starr is most appreciative of our departure locations that allow our guests to use their establishments for arrivals and departures. Parking is at your own risk and not that of Starr or the departure location. Please do not call the departure locations with your questions as Starr will be happy to assist you.
How much luggage am I allowed to take with me?
Each tour guest is permitted to bring one piece of luggage for storage in the luggage bay of the coach. Additional bags will be accepted on day of departure only based on space availability and will not be included in hotel baggage handling (the tour guest is responsible for getting the extra luggage to/from their room). In consideration of our Drivers, every effort should be made to keep luggage weight to a maximum of 40 pounds. Under no circumstances should luggage exceed 50 pounds. If luggage exceeds 50 pounds, the guest will be responsible for handling their heavy luggage throughout the trip. A small bag or purse, if carried onto the bus by the tour guest and stored in the overhead compartment on the coach, is permissible. Please do not leave valuables, important documents, or medications onboard, as Starr is not responsible for items left behind. Although every effort is made to handle our guests’ luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects. It is important for you to have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities.
How far in advance should I arrive before departure?
You should arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
What size beds do normal accommodations include? Can we upgrade to king-size beds? Can we upgrade our room?
When we book our rooms, we reserve 2 bedded rooms. When you make your reservation, you can request a king bed and we will request it with the hotel. Requests are never guaranteed. Room locations including adjoining/adjacent requests can also be made but are not guaranteed. Room upgrades are not permitted.
Are gratuities included in the price of my tour package?
The cost of your tour package includes all gratuities for baggage handling at hotel, meals included in the tour, and all related taxes, unless otherwise specified. Gratuities for Step-On (local) Guides and Starr staff are not included in the price of your tour. If you wish, such appreciation may be extended on an individual basis. Customary recognized guidelines are as follows:
• Starr Motorcoach Driver – $3-$5 per passenger, per day
• Starr Tour Director – $3-$5 per passenger, per day
• Step-on (local) Guide – $1.00 per passenger for a half-day sightseeing tour, $2 for a full-day sightseeing tour
• Maid Service at Hotel – $2.00 per room, per overnight
Why do some prices in your tour catalog say “Rates From?”
Some tours have inclusions that vary in price based on the time of year or day of the week. When that happens, we will show the lowest sell price in our catalog with an asterisk next to the corresponding date. You may call or go online to find the price of the trip on the dates with no asterisk.
How can I pay for my trip?
Starr accepts all major credit cards: Visa, MC, AMEX and Discover. You can pay online 24/7 at www.starrtours.com/payments. You may also pay by check or money order within 7 days of making your reservation by phone.
Can I book a trip online?
You can book your motorcoach trip online by clicking here: https://www.starrtours.com/bus-tours-and-trips/
How do you assign seats on your trip? Do you rotate seats while on tour?
Seats are assigned at time of booking and are subject to change. We do not rotate our seats while on tour. We do not assign seats for transportation to/from airports or piers and cruise transfers.
Are your movies appropriate for all ages?
Our movie library consists of G, PG and PG-13 movies.
Is there a discount for children?
Starr offers several one-day trips with reduced rates for children. Children 12 & under save 10% on all overnight motorcoach vacations.
Is my trip transferable?
Yes, if anyone in your party is not able to attend a tour, another person can attend in their place.
When will I receive my travel documents?
Multi-Day Tours: Approximately 2 weeks prior to departure via US Mail
Day Trips: Approximately 1-2 weeks prior to departure via email
Please review this information carefully and in detail to make sure you are fully prepared for your trip.
Is there a minimum age to travel alone on a packaged tour?
Travelers who are under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult (and on overnight vacations must room with an adult).
Do you offer any discounts?
We price our trips fairly and consistently with the attempt to offer our customers the best travel value for their dollar.
We do offer a MILITARY Discount – Save 5%
For: U.S. Active or retired Military, Disabled Veterans and Military Reservists
• Does not apply to family members (only the individual)
• Military discounts cannot be combined with any other discounts/coupons
• Cannot apply to existing bookings unless approved by a manager
• Excludes Fly and Cruise trips
• Must provide Military ID# at the time of booking
• The maximum amount of the discount on any one trip is $50
Will I need a passport? What about a REAL ID?
If you are traveling outside the United States, you will be required to present a passport. For international travel, your passport should be valid for 6 months after your travel ends.
On May 3, 2023, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestics flights and access certain federal facilities.
Do your buses have WiFi?
Our WiFi service can accommodate basic Internet browsing and checking and sending e-mails. Since this is a shared service with limited bandwidth, you should refrain from streaming video, audio, file downloads and emailing large attachments as a courtesy to other passengers. In addition, overall connection speed may be affected by the number of WiFi users on the bus.
Ask your driver for the WiFi password.
How much walking will I have to do while on tour?
Each tour is different. Some require more walking and others have less. A few tours include a “walking tour” in areas where the bus is not permitted. However, ALL tours require some walking. You may wish to consult with your Starr Travel Advisor to discuss your specific concerns.
Why is the Pick Up Location I want no longer available?
Approximately 3-4 weeks prior to departure, if 3 tour guests or less have selected a specific departure location, Starr may decide to remove that location from the trip’s routing.
- If this happens and you have booked your trip already, your Travel Advisor will contact you and ask you to change to a different trip departure location.
- If this happens and you have not yet booked the trip, you would be asked to select an alternate departure location.
Tour departure locations are never guaranteed and can change up until the time of the trip’s departure.
Tours – Cruise & Fly
Is it safe to leave my car at one of your departure locations?
Starr is most appreciative of our departure locations that allow our guests to use their establishments for arrivals and departures. Parking is at your own risk and not that of Starr or the departure location. Please do not call the departure locations with your questions as Starr will be happy to assist you.
How much luggage am I allowed to take with me?
Each tour guest is permitted to bring one piece of luggage for storage in the luggage bay of the coach. Additional bags will be accepted on day of departure only based on space availability and will not be included in hotel baggage handling (the tour guest is responsible for getting the extra luggage to/from their room). In consideration of our Drivers, every effort should be made to keep luggage weight to a maximum of 40 pounds. Under no circumstances should luggage exceed 50 pounds. If luggage exceeds 50 pounds, the guest will be responsible for handling their heavy luggage throughout the trip. A small bag or purse, if carried onto the bus by the tour guest and stored in the overhead compartment on the coach, is permissible. Please do not leave valuables, important documents, or medications onboard, as Starr is not responsible for items left behind. Although every effort is made to handle our guests’ luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects. It is important for you to have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities.
How far in advance should I arrive before departure?
You should arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
What size beds do normal accommodations include? Can we upgrade to king-size beds? Can we upgrade our room?
When we book our rooms, we reserve 2 bedded rooms. When you make your reservation, you can request a king bed and we will request it with the hotel. Requests are never guaranteed. Room locations including adjoining/adjacent requests can also be made but are not guaranteed. Room upgrades are not permitted.
Are gratuities included in the price of my tour package?
The cost of your tour package includes all gratuities for baggage handling at hotel, meals included in the tour, and all related taxes, unless otherwise specified. Gratuities for Step-On (local) Guides and Starr staff are not included in the price of your tour. If you wish, such appreciation may be extended on an individual basis. Customary recognized guidelines are as follows:
• Starr Motorcoach Driver – $3-$5 per passenger, per day
• Starr Tour Director – $3-$5 per passenger, per day
• Step-on (local) Guide – $1.00 per passenger for a half-day sightseeing tour, $2 for a full-day sightseeing tour
• Maid Service at Hotel – $2.00 per room, per overnight
Why do some prices in your tour catalog say “Rates From?”
Some tours have inclusions that vary in price based on the time of year or day of the week. When that happens, we will show the lowest sell price in our catalog with an asterisk next to the corresponding date. You may call or go online to find the price of the trip on the dates with no asterisk.
How can I pay for my trip?
Starr accepts all major credit cards: Visa, MC, AMEX and Discover. You can pay online 24/7 at www.starrtours.com/payments. You may also pay by check or money order within 7 days of making your reservation by phone.
How do you assign seats on your trip? Do you rotate seats while on tour?
Seats are assigned at time of booking and are subject to change. We do not rotate our seats while on tour. We do not assign seats for transportation to/from airports or piers and cruise transfers.
Is there a minimum age to travel alone on a packaged tour?
Travelers who are under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult (and on overnight vacations must room with an adult).
Do you offer any discounts?
We price our trips fairly and consistently with the attempt to offer our customers the best travel value for their dollar.
We do offer a MILITARY Discount – Save 5%
For: U.S. Active or retired Military, Disabled Veterans and Military Reservists
• Does not apply to family members (only the individual)
• Military discounts cannot be combined with any other discounts/coupons
• Cannot apply to existing bookings unless approved by a manager
• Excludes Fly and Cruise trips
• Must provide Military ID# at the time of booking
• The maximum amount of the discount on any one trip is $50
When will I receive my flight information?
Approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure, you will receive your travel documents. The travel documents include airline flight information (usually an e-ticket), cruise tickets, hotel information, departure time and location, day by day itinerary, and general information.
Why can’t I book my cruise or fly vacation on your website?
Because of the nature and amount of information we need to collect from you and pass along to you, cruise and fly vacations must be booked by phone or in person with a Starr Travel Advisor.
Will I need a passport? What about a REAL ID?
If you are traveling outside the United States, you will be required to present a passport. For international travel, your passport should be valid for 6 months after your travel ends.
On May 3, 2023, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestics flights and access certain federal facilities.
Are there luggage fees?
Please check with your specific airline for current checked baggage fees.
Why is the Pick Up Location I want no longer available?
Approximately 3-4 weeks prior to departure, if 3 tour guests or less have selected a specific departure location, Starr may decide to remove that location from the trip’s routing.
- If this happens and you have booked your trip already, your Travel Advisor will contact you and ask you to change to a different trip departure location.
- If this happens and you have not yet booked the trip, you would be asked to select an alternate departure location.
Tour departure locations are never guaranteed and can change up until the time of the trip’s departure.