Originally Posted by Clipper801

This is part of the Terms and Conditions posted at Trafalgar's web site:

"Tour Cancellation: Trafalgar reserves the right to cancel or re-schedule any tour departure in accordance with operating requirements or circumstances beyond its control. If cancellation is made any time prior to departure* of the tour, Trafalgar's only liability will be to refund to the passenger the amount it has received for the tour booking. Trafalgar will try to re-book the same or similar tour and, where flights have been confirmed by Trafalgar, will attempt to confirm air seats for new dates selected, subject to availability. Please note that Trafalgar is not liable for any cancellation penalties incurred on any other travel arrangements including air tickets purchased separately from the Air + Land inclusive package. Trafalgar is not responsible for any other travel arrangement affected due to our cancellations."

(*The departure date constitutes the date indicated on Trafalgar's confirmation.)

You went ahead to book the air ticket on your own when departure of the tour is not confirmed, you did so at your own risk. Your travel agent should have warned you. Most of these tours require a minimum no. of participants. If you've bought the ticket through Trafalgar, then they will cover the airline penalty for you.