FAQs
What are your rates?
Click here to request a price quote. Or go here to PRICING for an estimate.
What areas do you serve?
We offer wine tour transportation from the Greater Portland/Vancouver area and the wine country. In addition, we travel to Salem, areas in-between, and the Columbia River Gorge. Other outlining areas are on request. Please call 503-969-4370 for cost and information about pick-up/drop-off location costs from these and other outlining areas.
What are your office hours?
Our service is available 7-days per week, 365 days per year. Our office hours are Monday - Friday from 7am-8pm, and Saturday from 8am-6pm. A reservation agent is available during office hours.
When would a tour be cancelled?
Tours will be cancelled when safety becomes an issue due to medical or Covid-related situations, inclement weather, including but not limited to: ice, snow, and high winds. Tours are very rarely cancelled, but at times in the late fall and winter the Willamette Valley or Columbia River Gorge can act as a natural wind tunnel causing unusually difficult driving conditions for our high-profile bus. In the case of a tour being cancelled (as deemed necessary by My Chauffeur Wine Tours), we are happy to provide a full refund for our guests.
What is your cancellation/change in reservation policy?
Cancellations
What methods of payment do you accept?
We welcome Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Discover, Diners Club and cash or Apple Cash (on request). If you prefer to pay with cash, we request your credit card information to secure the reservation.
Do you charge our credit card right away after the reservation is made?
A deposit is typically requested right away. If you choose to use a credit card for final payment, we do not charge your credit card until after the tour is completed. However, special requests can be made either by you or My Chauffeur.
Do you have 'overtime' fees?
Any reservation that extends beyond the scheduled drop-off time will be charged/billed additional fees based on our next tour level pricing or regular hourly rates. Ultimately, it is always the responsibility of the group to return by their desired drop-off time. Overtime fees may be billed up to 14 days following drop-off.
Do overage fees still apply for unexpected delays, for example stuck in traffic?
It depends. For full-service tours we typically offer a grace period of 15 minutes. But with vehicle and driver only tour options, fees continue all the way until the final drop-off location regardless of any delays.
What types of discounts do you offer?
Besides our standard Senior discount (up to 20%) and non-adult discount (up to 50-100% off), we also offer large group tour bus discounts and 'RED HOT WEBSITE DEALS'
What are your vehicles like?
All of our vehicles (except the standard full size charter bus) are top-of-the-line luxury vehicles designed for your groups comfort, plain as that. The best way to get an idea of our vehicles is to visit our vehicles page.
What are the wineries expectations (i.e. rules) for large groups (6+ ppl)?
How do I book one of your tours?
It's easy! Take a look at reservations for options, or simply call us at 503-969-4370 or intl 1-503-969-4370. Very quick & easy. We'll send you confirmation of your reservation within 24 hours of receiving your request, along with information about the tour. A Deposit (usually $50-$100) is usually required; and your balance payment is typically due on your tour date, unless otherwise indicated. If your tour request is within the next 48 hours, please call us at the # above.
What exactly does the full-service tour per person price cover? Are tasting fees included or separate?
The cost covers the tour, the vehicle, chauffeur/tour guide and all other tour/planning related services. It does NOT cover your driver's gratuity (unless indicated otherwise), nor lunches or winery tasting fees unless you choose the all-inclusive package option. Winery facility tours, if requested, are also at additional cost.
Why do you have a potential pick-up location charge?
Even though your pick-up location may be closer to wine country, because of the extra expenses for our Company associated with the travel time to your pick-up location, we typically institute this hourly rate charge. But because you may not have a significant amount of time traveling to your winery destinations, you can usually choose a shorter length tour (ex. 4 hours instead of 6 hours), which would be less costly, and which mostly negates this pick-up location charge.
Are the vineyards open year-round?
Almost all of them are, but many are only open during special holidays (Thanksgiving Day and Memorial Day weekends for example) or by appointment.
Is your service different than other companies?
Yes, our service is an escorted service, with someone in the position of chauffeur, pilot, answerer of questions and general guide/ translator of the oddities of Oregon life and all-round wine country seer. On your escorted tour, you will reach unknown corners and secret locations which only someone with local knowledge and extensive wine country experience/research could find. Besides that, we offer private travel and complete concierge service for any size group. See 'Why Us?'.
We're not sure, can you choose the best wineries for us. Do you plan the tour or do we?
You may plan your tour, or you may leave that up to us. Most of the wine tours our staff does are ones which we completely design, from start to finish, the entire tour plan. Our tours are individually tailored for your group. We are very highly qualified to choose the best wineries for you, as well as making any additional arrangements with the wineries, for example, individual winery facility tours, special tasting, event recommendations and lunches. We make sure nothing is forgotten and no event missed in the planning to ensure your tour is completely successful.
How far in advance do I need to make the reservation?
There is no set requirement. But, for Saturday tours during summer, we would recommend as much advance notice as possible.
What if I have more than one pick-up location?
We can easily arrange multiple pick-up locations. But we recommend only 1 pick-up location, which would allow you more time in the wine country.
Can I buy wine during the tour? Will the winery ship it home for me?
You are welcome to purchase wine during the tour. All estates sell at the estate. Also keep in mind, many of the estates we visit only sell at their winery, available nowhere else. Whether the estate can ship it to your home state depends on the state which you live, see below. You may check with the specific winery, or check the shipping laws. For clients from other countries, it is sometimes possible for the estate to ship your wine to your home with an additional shipping charge. In any case, you always have the option of bringing wine home with you in the airplane. You may have to pay some amount of duty on your wine when you go through customs, if applicable.
As of Dec 2016, the wineries can ship to: AK, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IL, ID, IA, KS, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NM, NH, NY, ND, OR, OK, RI, SD, TX, VA, WA, WI.
Do I have to give you my personal information each time I book a reservation?
We have a computerized network reservation system that is ONLY accessed by authorized My Chauffeur representatives. We automatically set-up a personal profile whether you live in Oregon or are a frequent Out-of-Town traveler. Personal Profiles include your address, special instructions, important contact phone numbers etc. We do not keep your credit card information on-file. To keep your credit card on file with us, you would need to go to Personal and Corporate Credit Card Accounts, to set up an account. Setting up a personal profile or Credit Card Account saves you time when you book your next reservation and can be more secure. We, of course, never share any information with any other party.
Do you offer other tours besides wine tours?
Wine tours in the Willamette Valley and Columbia River Gorge remain our original tours, our specialty, but we do offer several other very interesting tours. Examples include the Portland City Tour, Portland Brewery/Distillery tours or Hood River or Astoria Brewery tours, Mt. Hood Tour, Oregon Coast tours, the Columbia River Gorge Tour & others. We also offer wine tours to the Southern Willamette Valley and Eastern Washington state. Please inquire. For a complete tour list, go HERE.
What are the Terms & Conditions?
Click HERE.
Should we tip our driver?
Currently, an automatic driver gratuity is typically already included. However, if not, and If you feel the chauffeur/tour guide has done an exceptionally great job ("a job well done") during your tour, they would, of course, appreciate any gratuity you would wish to extend to them. Recommended gratuity is 20% based on full fare not just balance due. We will indicate to you at the get-go, whether the gratuity is already included or not.
Do you offer private service for groups of 1, 2 or 3 people?
Your tour will always be private (unless you choose the public option) for 1, 2, or 50+ people. Our walking tours (if applicable), can be either private, or public.
Do you offer mixed group tours, or only private tours?
With 1, 2 or 3 people many people ask if a mixed group tour is possible for companionship or to save costs. We normally only book our tours as private. However, if you leave us your name and phone # we will contact you if a mixed group tour is possible.
Do you have a 'No-Show' policy?
A no-show is defined by us as not canceling your tour at least 3 hours of the start time. Our driver will wait at the designated pickup location for 30 minutes after the scheduled pickup time before departure when it is considered a no-show if we have not had contact with the party. Late start times are taken away from the scheduled tour s duration. A "no-show" fee will be charged the full trip cost, plus 20% service fee plus applicable wait time fee when the passenger fails to arrive at the designated location without a documented excuse. For what is a valid excuse is determined by My chauffeur on a case-by-case basis and is at the sole discretion of My Chauffeur. A minimum fee still usually applies even with valid excuses equal the vehicles hourly rate, standard minimum time requirements and/or any pickup/drop-off location charges.
If the passenger cannot locate the vehicle, they must call 503-969-4370 to avoid a "no show" fee.
Does your tour have snacks/food included? If so, what kind and is there an extra charge? If not, can food be brought or bought? What is included in the cost of the tour?
All tours include light refreshments or meals (when ordered, and at additional cost*) which are comprised of a disposable water bottle (which we recycle at end of tour), front door pick-up and drop-off at designated locations, experienced and knowledgeable professional guides, transport in a clean and comfortable tour vehicle throughout the tour, “fun facts” galore & our world famous friendly Pacific Northwest hospitality!
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE NOTE - If you are already traveling with your own refillable water bottle (Nalgene, Hydroflask, etc…) please fill it up beforehand and bring it with you on the tour. We like to reduce our plastic consumption and effect on the planet whenever possible. Thanks! No worries if you don’t have one, we will have a recyclable water bottle for you.
*You may include a catered picnic lunch on your tour, ordered from one of our on-line menus, at additional cost, usually about $15-$20 per person. Or you may bring your own picnic lunch. Lunches would be enjoyed at one of the wineries picnic grounds. You may order or bring along snacks if you desire, we do not supply them unless specifically ordered. Other options are a café or restaurant for either to-go or sit-down service.
We went on one of your tours before, can we do something different on our next wine tour?
The North Willamette Valley has over 400 wineries, about 12 different winery regions (AVAs) throughout Oregon, and the addition of the Columbia River Gorge region, there are nearly infinite choices and possibilities. Ever-changing special events are also something to consider. But don't let this overwhelm you, for we are here to make it simple and ensure your next trip is not only entirely different, but better than the last. As you become more familiar with the wine country, your knowledge and appreciation for this country goes up, adding, each time, to the wine tour experience. For a complete (non-winery) tour list, go HERE.
Do you choose the wineries, or can we pick them, and how many wineries do you typically go to?
Our service is very flexible, and your group may pick your wineries if you choose to, but only if you choose to. Your private tour has infinite possibilities and is yours to do with it as you wish. In this circumstance, we will be on-hand to give advice about the wine country, individual wineries, their wines, their availability etc., if you desire. We can supply any needed information to make your tour a success. If you're not sure of which wineries to go to, My Chauffeur will be happy to assist. Note - some wineries are only open by appointment. For a standard 6-hour tour, you will probably go to 3-5 wineries.
Do you provide service on holidays? If so, are there any additional charges?
Yes, and there are no additional charges. However, the minimum person charge requirement may be higher, instituted on the following holiday weekends:
Do you offer billable accounts?
We do not offer billable accounts. However, we do offer credit card accounts only for companies and individuals for ease in payment and to limit the exchange of sensitive information... For additional information, please call us at 503-969-4370.
Can you accommodate large groups of 15-passengers or more?
We can accommodate up to 21 persons in a single shuttle bus, or 50-100 or more in a tour bus(es). Call 503-969-4370 for a rate quote and availability.
Can we bring children on the tour?
According the the OLCC (Oregon Liquor Control Commission), you may bring children of any age on a wine tour. You may even consume alcohol in the vehicle when children are present. The winery tasting rooms also welcome children.
We are going to enjoy a family outing with children, do you have any options for this?
We can recommend the Evergreen Aviation Museum, a family-fun park located in McMinnville to supplement the wineries; it is fun for the whole family and a convenient (& popular) wine country stop. Or, you may view our wine country activities page for many additional ideas. The Columbia R. Gorge wine tour also has many kid related options, please inquire.
What are the Seat Belt Usage/Child Restraint Laws?
Click HERE.
Do you transport pets?
No, we do not.
How frequently will we have access to bathroom?
During most tours, we make frequent stops that allow for getting out of the van for bathroom breaks and an opportunity to stretch the legs. The longest stretch of time without a stop would be about 1 hour when driving out to the Salem area wineries. Your guide will be frequently mentioning any and all bathroom opportunities throughout the tour. Of course, you may request a bathroom stop at any time.
What happens if it rains?
Here in Oregon we embrace what we affectionately refer to as “liquid sunshine”. All of our tours run every day, rain or shine. Some of our favorite days are filled with swirling mysterious mist and cool refreshing showers which cover the moss and fern-laden trails with silvery dew. We live in a lush, green, temperate rainforest which maintains its beauty thanks to the abundant rainfall we are fortunate enough to receive. All of our vehicles are equipped with complementary umbrellas. However, we strongly recommend that you come prepared with your own rain gear, rain ponchos and warm layers as needed (hat & gloves are recommended in winter). While summer is frequently hot and sunny, the spring, fall and winter weather in the Northwest varies widely and is sometimes unpredictable. It’s always best to be prepared for any & all weather when you leave your hotel in the morning.
Are the tours wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, we are not able to accommodate wheelchairs at this time as our mini-bus is not properly equipped with a lift system. Additionally, many of the locations that we visit involve dirt or gravel trails that are not easily accessed by wheelchairs. That being said, we can stow the walker, or wheelchair (if collapsible), inside or in the rear of the bus.
Do I need to buy a seat/ticket for my child?
All persons that will be travelling in the bus or sedan will be required to purchase a seat/ticket, regardless of age. Children/Adults under 21 years, travel at 50% off. Seniors are 20% off. If travelling with small children it is important to be aware of Oregon’s regulations regarding child seats, and it is the responsibility of the parent to provide the appropriate legally mandated car/booster seat as well as installation of the seat in the vehicle. All children/toddlers/infants will require a car seat. For more information, please visit the Oregon Department of Transportation website by following this link for ODOT Child Seats - https://www.oregon.gov/odot/safety/pages/belts-seats.aspx (Hint - you may have to cut and paste it into your browser).
Can I bring my stroller?
Storage space is limited in our bus (there is no trunk, however there is a luggage area), therefore it is important for you to plan accordingly and inform us ahead of time if you are planning to bring a collapsible stroller or any other large items that will require additional space for storage. We will do our best to accommodate your needs if possible and appreciate advance notice on any specific accommodations you may require. The umbrella style smaller foldable strollers are more likely to fit in the bus.
How much walking is involved in the tour?
On our wine tours, typically MINIMAL. All tours can involve time out of the vehicle for short walks or hikes in order to maximize the experience (especially during any potential winery facility tour) and fully enjoy the sights. Most walks are less than a 1/2 mile round trip (or much shorter), but may vary depending on the dynamics of the tour group. Some trails may have a slight incline and/or decline, but are suitable for most clientele. We have taken guests from 4 years old to 94 years old on our tours and they have all enjoyed it and been able to participate in most or all of the activities. It’s always an option to sit out a tasting room and wait in the vehicle (large windows and very comfortable).
What should I wear and/or bring on the tour?
Due to the unpredictable and ever-changing weather in this area, we strongly suggest that you check the upcoming forecast for the locations you will be visiting the morning of the tour. By doing so, you will be able to better prepare, bringing extra layers, rain gear and appropriate footwear as needed. For tours involving short walks/hikes, we recommend comfortable walking shoes and layered outerwear that can be easily applied or removed during the outing. It’s worthy of note that in different areas of a winery, it is often 15-30 degrees cooler than temperatures outside (even in the summer). The Willamette Valley and Columbia River Gorge in fall, winter or early spring can also require warm winter jackets or rain jackets (gloves & warm hats are always a good idea too!). Bottom line is it’s always a good idea to bring a jacket in Oregon regardless of season.
BAGS - A small day pack (very small backpack), camera bag, purse, or tote bag are fine in the vehicles as long as they can fit by your feet, but we can accommodate wine boxes and large suitcases in the bus storage area and/or passenger seating areas as well. Please call us before the tour if you have any questions. 503-969-4370.
If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to contact us!
Click here to request a price quote. Or go here to PRICING for an estimate.
What areas do you serve?
We offer wine tour transportation from the Greater Portland/Vancouver area and the wine country. In addition, we travel to Salem, areas in-between, and the Columbia River Gorge. Other outlining areas are on request. Please call 503-969-4370 for cost and information about pick-up/drop-off location costs from these and other outlining areas.
What are your office hours?
Our service is available 7-days per week, 365 days per year. Our office hours are Monday - Friday from 7am-8pm, and Saturday from 8am-6pm. A reservation agent is available during office hours.
When would a tour be cancelled?
Tours will be cancelled when safety becomes an issue due to medical or Covid-related situations, inclement weather, including but not limited to: ice, snow, and high winds. Tours are very rarely cancelled, but at times in the late fall and winter the Willamette Valley or Columbia River Gorge can act as a natural wind tunnel causing unusually difficult driving conditions for our high-profile bus. In the case of a tour being cancelled (as deemed necessary by My Chauffeur Wine Tours), we are happy to provide a full refund for our guests.
What is your cancellation/change in reservation policy?
Cancellations
What methods of payment do you accept?
We welcome Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Discover, Diners Club and cash or Apple Cash (on request). If you prefer to pay with cash, we request your credit card information to secure the reservation.
Do you charge our credit card right away after the reservation is made?
A deposit is typically requested right away. If you choose to use a credit card for final payment, we do not charge your credit card until after the tour is completed. However, special requests can be made either by you or My Chauffeur.
Do you have 'overtime' fees?
Any reservation that extends beyond the scheduled drop-off time will be charged/billed additional fees based on our next tour level pricing or regular hourly rates. Ultimately, it is always the responsibility of the group to return by their desired drop-off time. Overtime fees may be billed up to 14 days following drop-off.
Do overage fees still apply for unexpected delays, for example stuck in traffic?
It depends. For full-service tours we typically offer a grace period of 15 minutes. But with vehicle and driver only tour options, fees continue all the way until the final drop-off location regardless of any delays.
What types of discounts do you offer?
Besides our standard Senior discount (up to 20%) and non-adult discount (up to 50-100% off), we also offer large group tour bus discounts and 'RED HOT WEBSITE DEALS'
What are your vehicles like?
All of our vehicles (except the standard full size charter bus) are top-of-the-line luxury vehicles designed for your groups comfort, plain as that. The best way to get an idea of our vehicles is to visit our vehicles page.
What are the wineries expectations (i.e. rules) for large groups (6+ ppl)?
- In general for groups of 6-10+ people, reservations ahead of time need to be made, and is required. Each winery has distinct rules regarding this. Some wineries require appts regardless of group size.
- Wineries prefer, but not require, that the tasting fees are paid on a single tab. This can be cash, check, or credit; the idea is to get the group in as quickly and easily as possible, so that they can start tasting wine and enjoying themselves. Otherwise, they see a lot of milling around trying to figure out who is paying what, and then lining up to pay individually. As you might imagine, it can get pretty crowded in the busy season, and nobody likes to wait in line for wine. My Chauffeur can also often take care of the tasting fees for the group during the tour and add it to the final bill; please inquire.
- The wineries reserve the right (and in fact it is the law) to refuse service to any group or individual that appears intoxicated, via OLCC regulations. This applies to any sized group. If your group has had one too many, they will refuse you service. Your chauffeur also will advise the tasting room staff if they feel any individual appears too intoxicated. If the group in general appears too intoxicated, your driver will end the reservation. We want everyone to be safe, legal, and happy in wine country, and we appreciate your help in meeting that goal. I can’t tell you how much wineries appreciate that.
How do I book one of your tours?
It's easy! Take a look at reservations for options, or simply call us at 503-969-4370 or intl 1-503-969-4370. Very quick & easy. We'll send you confirmation of your reservation within 24 hours of receiving your request, along with information about the tour. A Deposit (usually $50-$100) is usually required; and your balance payment is typically due on your tour date, unless otherwise indicated. If your tour request is within the next 48 hours, please call us at the # above.
What exactly does the full-service tour per person price cover? Are tasting fees included or separate?
The cost covers the tour, the vehicle, chauffeur/tour guide and all other tour/planning related services. It does NOT cover your driver's gratuity (unless indicated otherwise), nor lunches or winery tasting fees unless you choose the all-inclusive package option. Winery facility tours, if requested, are also at additional cost.
Why do you have a potential pick-up location charge?
Even though your pick-up location may be closer to wine country, because of the extra expenses for our Company associated with the travel time to your pick-up location, we typically institute this hourly rate charge. But because you may not have a significant amount of time traveling to your winery destinations, you can usually choose a shorter length tour (ex. 4 hours instead of 6 hours), which would be less costly, and which mostly negates this pick-up location charge.
Are the vineyards open year-round?
Almost all of them are, but many are only open during special holidays (Thanksgiving Day and Memorial Day weekends for example) or by appointment.
Is your service different than other companies?
Yes, our service is an escorted service, with someone in the position of chauffeur, pilot, answerer of questions and general guide/ translator of the oddities of Oregon life and all-round wine country seer. On your escorted tour, you will reach unknown corners and secret locations which only someone with local knowledge and extensive wine country experience/research could find. Besides that, we offer private travel and complete concierge service for any size group. See 'Why Us?'.
We're not sure, can you choose the best wineries for us. Do you plan the tour or do we?
You may plan your tour, or you may leave that up to us. Most of the wine tours our staff does are ones which we completely design, from start to finish, the entire tour plan. Our tours are individually tailored for your group. We are very highly qualified to choose the best wineries for you, as well as making any additional arrangements with the wineries, for example, individual winery facility tours, special tasting, event recommendations and lunches. We make sure nothing is forgotten and no event missed in the planning to ensure your tour is completely successful.
How far in advance do I need to make the reservation?
There is no set requirement. But, for Saturday tours during summer, we would recommend as much advance notice as possible.
What if I have more than one pick-up location?
We can easily arrange multiple pick-up locations. But we recommend only 1 pick-up location, which would allow you more time in the wine country.
Can I buy wine during the tour? Will the winery ship it home for me?
You are welcome to purchase wine during the tour. All estates sell at the estate. Also keep in mind, many of the estates we visit only sell at their winery, available nowhere else. Whether the estate can ship it to your home state depends on the state which you live, see below. You may check with the specific winery, or check the shipping laws. For clients from other countries, it is sometimes possible for the estate to ship your wine to your home with an additional shipping charge. In any case, you always have the option of bringing wine home with you in the airplane. You may have to pay some amount of duty on your wine when you go through customs, if applicable.
As of Dec 2016, the wineries can ship to: AK, AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IL, ID, IA, KS, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NM, NH, NY, ND, OR, OK, RI, SD, TX, VA, WA, WI.
Do I have to give you my personal information each time I book a reservation?
We have a computerized network reservation system that is ONLY accessed by authorized My Chauffeur representatives. We automatically set-up a personal profile whether you live in Oregon or are a frequent Out-of-Town traveler. Personal Profiles include your address, special instructions, important contact phone numbers etc. We do not keep your credit card information on-file. To keep your credit card on file with us, you would need to go to Personal and Corporate Credit Card Accounts, to set up an account. Setting up a personal profile or Credit Card Account saves you time when you book your next reservation and can be more secure. We, of course, never share any information with any other party.
Do you offer other tours besides wine tours?
Wine tours in the Willamette Valley and Columbia River Gorge remain our original tours, our specialty, but we do offer several other very interesting tours. Examples include the Portland City Tour, Portland Brewery/Distillery tours or Hood River or Astoria Brewery tours, Mt. Hood Tour, Oregon Coast tours, the Columbia River Gorge Tour & others. We also offer wine tours to the Southern Willamette Valley and Eastern Washington state. Please inquire. For a complete tour list, go HERE.
What are the Terms & Conditions?
Click HERE.
Should we tip our driver?
Currently, an automatic driver gratuity is typically already included. However, if not, and If you feel the chauffeur/tour guide has done an exceptionally great job ("a job well done") during your tour, they would, of course, appreciate any gratuity you would wish to extend to them. Recommended gratuity is 20% based on full fare not just balance due. We will indicate to you at the get-go, whether the gratuity is already included or not.
Do you offer private service for groups of 1, 2 or 3 people?
Your tour will always be private (unless you choose the public option) for 1, 2, or 50+ people. Our walking tours (if applicable), can be either private, or public.
Do you offer mixed group tours, or only private tours?
With 1, 2 or 3 people many people ask if a mixed group tour is possible for companionship or to save costs. We normally only book our tours as private. However, if you leave us your name and phone # we will contact you if a mixed group tour is possible.
Do you have a 'No-Show' policy?
A no-show is defined by us as not canceling your tour at least 3 hours of the start time. Our driver will wait at the designated pickup location for 30 minutes after the scheduled pickup time before departure when it is considered a no-show if we have not had contact with the party. Late start times are taken away from the scheduled tour s duration. A "no-show" fee will be charged the full trip cost, plus 20% service fee plus applicable wait time fee when the passenger fails to arrive at the designated location without a documented excuse. For what is a valid excuse is determined by My chauffeur on a case-by-case basis and is at the sole discretion of My Chauffeur. A minimum fee still usually applies even with valid excuses equal the vehicles hourly rate, standard minimum time requirements and/or any pickup/drop-off location charges.
If the passenger cannot locate the vehicle, they must call 503-969-4370 to avoid a "no show" fee.
Does your tour have snacks/food included? If so, what kind and is there an extra charge? If not, can food be brought or bought? What is included in the cost of the tour?
All tours include light refreshments or meals (when ordered, and at additional cost*) which are comprised of a disposable water bottle (which we recycle at end of tour), front door pick-up and drop-off at designated locations, experienced and knowledgeable professional guides, transport in a clean and comfortable tour vehicle throughout the tour, “fun facts” galore & our world famous friendly Pacific Northwest hospitality!
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE NOTE - If you are already traveling with your own refillable water bottle (Nalgene, Hydroflask, etc…) please fill it up beforehand and bring it with you on the tour. We like to reduce our plastic consumption and effect on the planet whenever possible. Thanks! No worries if you don’t have one, we will have a recyclable water bottle for you.
*You may include a catered picnic lunch on your tour, ordered from one of our on-line menus, at additional cost, usually about $15-$20 per person. Or you may bring your own picnic lunch. Lunches would be enjoyed at one of the wineries picnic grounds. You may order or bring along snacks if you desire, we do not supply them unless specifically ordered. Other options are a café or restaurant for either to-go or sit-down service.
We went on one of your tours before, can we do something different on our next wine tour?
The North Willamette Valley has over 400 wineries, about 12 different winery regions (AVAs) throughout Oregon, and the addition of the Columbia River Gorge region, there are nearly infinite choices and possibilities. Ever-changing special events are also something to consider. But don't let this overwhelm you, for we are here to make it simple and ensure your next trip is not only entirely different, but better than the last. As you become more familiar with the wine country, your knowledge and appreciation for this country goes up, adding, each time, to the wine tour experience. For a complete (non-winery) tour list, go HERE.
Do you choose the wineries, or can we pick them, and how many wineries do you typically go to?
Our service is very flexible, and your group may pick your wineries if you choose to, but only if you choose to. Your private tour has infinite possibilities and is yours to do with it as you wish. In this circumstance, we will be on-hand to give advice about the wine country, individual wineries, their wines, their availability etc., if you desire. We can supply any needed information to make your tour a success. If you're not sure of which wineries to go to, My Chauffeur will be happy to assist. Note - some wineries are only open by appointment. For a standard 6-hour tour, you will probably go to 3-5 wineries.
Do you provide service on holidays? If so, are there any additional charges?
Yes, and there are no additional charges. However, the minimum person charge requirement may be higher, instituted on the following holiday weekends:
- Memorial Day weekend
- Thanksgiving Day weekend
Do you offer billable accounts?
We do not offer billable accounts. However, we do offer credit card accounts only for companies and individuals for ease in payment and to limit the exchange of sensitive information... For additional information, please call us at 503-969-4370.
Can you accommodate large groups of 15-passengers or more?
We can accommodate up to 21 persons in a single shuttle bus, or 50-100 or more in a tour bus(es). Call 503-969-4370 for a rate quote and availability.
Can we bring children on the tour?
According the the OLCC (Oregon Liquor Control Commission), you may bring children of any age on a wine tour. You may even consume alcohol in the vehicle when children are present. The winery tasting rooms also welcome children.
We are going to enjoy a family outing with children, do you have any options for this?
We can recommend the Evergreen Aviation Museum, a family-fun park located in McMinnville to supplement the wineries; it is fun for the whole family and a convenient (& popular) wine country stop. Or, you may view our wine country activities page for many additional ideas. The Columbia R. Gorge wine tour also has many kid related options, please inquire.
What are the Seat Belt Usage/Child Restraint Laws?
Click HERE.
Do you transport pets?
No, we do not.
How frequently will we have access to bathroom?
During most tours, we make frequent stops that allow for getting out of the van for bathroom breaks and an opportunity to stretch the legs. The longest stretch of time without a stop would be about 1 hour when driving out to the Salem area wineries. Your guide will be frequently mentioning any and all bathroom opportunities throughout the tour. Of course, you may request a bathroom stop at any time.
What happens if it rains?
Here in Oregon we embrace what we affectionately refer to as “liquid sunshine”. All of our tours run every day, rain or shine. Some of our favorite days are filled with swirling mysterious mist and cool refreshing showers which cover the moss and fern-laden trails with silvery dew. We live in a lush, green, temperate rainforest which maintains its beauty thanks to the abundant rainfall we are fortunate enough to receive. All of our vehicles are equipped with complementary umbrellas. However, we strongly recommend that you come prepared with your own rain gear, rain ponchos and warm layers as needed (hat & gloves are recommended in winter). While summer is frequently hot and sunny, the spring, fall and winter weather in the Northwest varies widely and is sometimes unpredictable. It’s always best to be prepared for any & all weather when you leave your hotel in the morning.
Are the tours wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, we are not able to accommodate wheelchairs at this time as our mini-bus is not properly equipped with a lift system. Additionally, many of the locations that we visit involve dirt or gravel trails that are not easily accessed by wheelchairs. That being said, we can stow the walker, or wheelchair (if collapsible), inside or in the rear of the bus.
Do I need to buy a seat/ticket for my child?
All persons that will be travelling in the bus or sedan will be required to purchase a seat/ticket, regardless of age. Children/Adults under 21 years, travel at 50% off. Seniors are 20% off. If travelling with small children it is important to be aware of Oregon’s regulations regarding child seats, and it is the responsibility of the parent to provide the appropriate legally mandated car/booster seat as well as installation of the seat in the vehicle. All children/toddlers/infants will require a car seat. For more information, please visit the Oregon Department of Transportation website by following this link for ODOT Child Seats - https://www.oregon.gov/odot/safety/pages/belts-seats.aspx (Hint - you may have to cut and paste it into your browser).
Can I bring my stroller?
Storage space is limited in our bus (there is no trunk, however there is a luggage area), therefore it is important for you to plan accordingly and inform us ahead of time if you are planning to bring a collapsible stroller or any other large items that will require additional space for storage. We will do our best to accommodate your needs if possible and appreciate advance notice on any specific accommodations you may require. The umbrella style smaller foldable strollers are more likely to fit in the bus.
How much walking is involved in the tour?
On our wine tours, typically MINIMAL. All tours can involve time out of the vehicle for short walks or hikes in order to maximize the experience (especially during any potential winery facility tour) and fully enjoy the sights. Most walks are less than a 1/2 mile round trip (or much shorter), but may vary depending on the dynamics of the tour group. Some trails may have a slight incline and/or decline, but are suitable for most clientele. We have taken guests from 4 years old to 94 years old on our tours and they have all enjoyed it and been able to participate in most or all of the activities. It’s always an option to sit out a tasting room and wait in the vehicle (large windows and very comfortable).
What should I wear and/or bring on the tour?
Due to the unpredictable and ever-changing weather in this area, we strongly suggest that you check the upcoming forecast for the locations you will be visiting the morning of the tour. By doing so, you will be able to better prepare, bringing extra layers, rain gear and appropriate footwear as needed. For tours involving short walks/hikes, we recommend comfortable walking shoes and layered outerwear that can be easily applied or removed during the outing. It’s worthy of note that in different areas of a winery, it is often 15-30 degrees cooler than temperatures outside (even in the summer). The Willamette Valley and Columbia River Gorge in fall, winter or early spring can also require warm winter jackets or rain jackets (gloves & warm hats are always a good idea too!). Bottom line is it’s always a good idea to bring a jacket in Oregon regardless of season.
BAGS - A small day pack (very small backpack), camera bag, purse, or tote bag are fine in the vehicles as long as they can fit by your feet, but we can accommodate wine boxes and large suitcases in the bus storage area and/or passenger seating areas as well. Please call us before the tour if you have any questions. 503-969-4370.
If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to contact us!
