WWF Giants of Antarctica

11 Days

Category & Pricing

TRIP DATES AVAILABILITY PRICE SPACE LEFT
09/03/2024 - 19/03/2024 Guaranteed $11,144.00
Available

Join Where Wild Things Roam and special guests from the World Wildlife Fund – Australia (WWF-Australia) on the Intrepid 11-day expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula. Scout icy waters and white shores for whales and other critters by day, then relax and enjoy a fascinating lecture program by night. Alongside our regular team of Antarctic experts, WWF-Australia scientists will join this tour to share insights into whale conservation as they conduct cutting-edge research on these underwater giants. And whale tales are just the beginning! This adventure offers you the chance to explore Antarctica’s barren beauty on foot and by Zodiac, and encounter penguin rookeries, sight leopard seals and gawp at towering glaciers as they calve right before your eyes.

Travelling with Dr Ari Friedlaender and a team of researchers in peak humpback whale season, you’ll get the chance to learn about state-of-the-art whale research techniques and marine conservation. Get the chance to take daily excursions with experts in Antarctic biology, glaciology and history, then unwind at night with onboard lectures and presentations.

About the Partnership

WWF-Australia researchers will be conducting scientific research into Antarctica’s great whales, looking to find solutions to further protect them in the future and sharing it onboard. This partnership will offer travellers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn more about WWF-Australia’s work through a number of interactive experiences.

The Intrepid Foundation, Intrepid Travel’s not-for-profit arm, will support WWF-Australia’s Protecting Antarctic Giants project over two years with AUD $150,000. The data collected during the project will directly contribute to our understanding of Antarctica’s whale populations and to developing a conservation policy. Intrepid has doubled its carbon offset commitment for every customer travelling on the Ocean Endeavour vessel in the 2021 season, as well as investing in sustainable initiatives across the Antarctic region to further support WWF.

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To book or find out more, please email hello@wherewildthingsroamtravel.com quote reference ANTARCTICA

Overview

Join Where Wild Things Roam and special guests from the World Wildlife Fund – Australia (WWF-Australia) on the Intrepid 11-day expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula. Scout icy waters and white shores for whales and other critters by day, then relax and enjoy a fascinating lecture program by night. Alongside our regular team of Antarctic experts, WWF-Australia scientists will join this tour to share insights into whale conservation as they conduct cutting edge research on these underwater giants. And whale tales are just the beginning! This adventure offers you the chance to explore Antarctica’s barren beauty on foot and by Zodiac, and encounter penguin rookeries, sight leopard seals and gawp at towering glaciers as they calve right before your eyes.

Why you’ll love this trip

  • Get the chance to learn about state-of-the-art whale research techniques and marine conservation from Dr Ari Friedlaender and a team of researchers during peak humpback whale season.
  • Get the chance to take daily excursions with experts in Antarctic biology, glaciology and history – with extra days for landings on this extended expedition – then unwind at night with onboard lectures and presentations.
  • Enjoy a more personal journey on the Ocean Endeavour, which boasts an enviable crew to passenger ratio – one expedition crew member for every 8 passengers.
  • Customise your trip with optional activities like kayaking, a photography masterclass, yoga classes, massage or even a polar plunge.
  • Travel with a lighter footprint though a carbon-offset expedition that serves only sustainably sourced seafood and avoids single-use plastics.

Is this trip right for you?

  • Joining you on this voyage is Dr Ari Friedlaender – a marine ecologist at UC Santa Cruz and the Californian Ocean Alliance. Dr Friedlaender’s work is currently focused on using tag technology to study the ecology and underwater behaviour of whales around the world, and the implications of climate change on these species. Having made over 35 trips to Antarctica over 20 years, he, along with an expert research team, is being supported by The Intrepid Foundation and WWF-Australia to join this polar voyage. The team will be continuing their research and data-gathering, along with advocacy for whale conservation.
  • Although our ice-strengthened ships are big and sturdy, the Antarctic waters can be unpredictable and rough. Some people may experience seasickness, especially through the Drake Passage and other open water crossings, so please be prepared with medications to combat this – we’d hate for you to miss a single minute of this journey. There is also a doctor on board should you need further assistance.
  • Packing right is crucial to your enjoyment of this trip and you might have to buy a few bits and pieces to get ready. Please see the ‘Packing’ section of the Essential Trip Information for notes on what to bring.
  • A certain level of mobility is required for wet and dry landings from the boat, as well as walking on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces. The Ocean Endeavour has a lift, but you’ll need to take the stairs to get to the gangway and some other parts of the ship that the lift does not provide access to.
  • The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and, although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned for. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially in such a remote area. There are hundreds of recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and the ones mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to alternative – just as interesting – destinations.

Overview & Itinerary

Is this trip right for you?

Physical rating

Joining Point

Problems and emergency contact information

Itinerary

Finishing point

Itinerary disclaimer

Feedback

Essential Trip Information

Important notes

Passports, visas and entry requirements

Medical and health information

Food and dietary requirements

Accommodation

Transport

Money matters

Packing

Phone and internet access

Group leader

Safety

Travel Insurance

Responsible travel

The Intrepid Foundation

Important notes

From 01 September 2021, all travellers on Intrepid trips will be required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. Excludes Australia, New Zealand and Cook Islands tours. Read details here.

ADVENTURE ADD ON’s
Kayaking is available to book on all Antarctic voyages. Some voyages also offer other activities such as camping and snowshoeing. All of these activities must be booked prior to departure and incur an additional cost. Spaces are limited so please enquire at time of booking. For kayaking, previous, recent experience is essential.
Camping is not available on the 17 February 2023 departure.

PHOTOGRAPHY
Photography workshops are offered as an optional activity on our Ocean Endeavour departures. It is an opportunity for photography enthusiasts of any skill level to fast track their learning on board and make the most of the expert advice that is on offer. Participants will have dedicated Zodiac and photography guided landing where your photography guide will accompany you and give you tips along the way for taking the perfect picture. It is at an additional cost to you and needs to be booked in prior to departure as spaces are limited. If you are interested in taking part, please contact your booking agent for pricing and availability.

Highlights

  • Learn about state-of-the-art whale research techniques and marine conservation from Dr Ari Friedlaender and a team of researchers during peak humpback whale season.
  • Daily excursions with experts in Antarctic biology, glaciology and history.
  • Unwind at night with onboard lectures and presentations.
  • Optional activities like kayaking, a photography masterclass, yoga classes, massage or even a polar plunge.

Itinerary

Day 1 :
Ushuaia

Welcome to Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city. You’ll be briefed at the hotel tonight on the journey and details for tomorrow’s embarkation, but if you happen to arrive early there are a surprising amount of ways to entertain yourself at ‘the End of the World’. Check out the Museo Maritimo to brush up on the region’s history, or take a stroll down Avenida San Martin if you’re after any last-minute essentials before departing. Oh, and did we mention this is Argentina – if all else fails, head to a local restaurant to get your fill of red wine and steak.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
An arrival transfer from the airport on Day 1 is included in your voyage fare. Full details will be sent with your final joining instructions.

This afternoon you’ll board the Ocean Endeavour, settle into your cabin and begin cruising down the stunning Beagle Channel, named for Charles Darwin’s ship. The channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America, and as the ship pulls away from port there’s always an air of anticipation. Travelling with you on this voyage is marine ecologist Dr Ari Freidlaender and a small team of scientists, who are heading to Antarctica to undertake crucial research on the migration and feeding patterns of baleen whales. Wave goodbye to Argentina and know that the next time you see land you’ll be staring at Antarctica.
Accommodation
Ocean Endeavour (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Dinner

The time has come to cross the Drake Passage, the legendary body of water named after English explorer Sir Francis Drake. If the conditions are right, enjoy some time out on deck to spot dolphins, orcas or perhaps albatross. If the waters are a little rough, the Ocean Endeavour is equipped with some seriously lush facilities for you to take advantage of. As well as safety briefings, a comprehensive lecture program will run throughout the journey delivered by experts in Antarctica’s history, geology and biology, Dr Freidlaender and his team of researchers. With any luck we’ll make it to land by early evening on Day 4 – a moment that always brings much excitement.
Accommodation
Ocean Endeavour (2 nights)
Meals Included
Breakfast (2)
Lunch (2)
Dinner (2)

As above.

Say goodbye to the Antarctic Peninsula as we begin our return leg to Ushuaia. Take the opportunity to share photographs with fellow travellers, enjoy some final lectures from polar experts and speak with the WWF-Australia team about their whale research findings from their time on the Peninsula. Ultimately, Dr Friedlaender and his team hope that their research will lead to the establishment of an Antarctic marine protection area, preventing krill fishing in the region and safeguarding the health of baleen whales. With The Intrepid Foundation helping to facilitate this research voyage and supporting WWF-Australia’s Protecting Antarctic Giants project, this is a cause to get behind. Your last days on board are also a great opportunity to make use of the Ocean Endeavour’s health and wellness facilities, including its saunas, spa, heated pool, yoga classes and gym.
Accommodation
Ocean Endeavour (2 nights)
Meals Included
Breakfast (2)
Lunch (2)
Dinner (2)

As above.

As above

As above.

Day 9 :
At Sea

Say goodbye to the Antarctic Peninsula as we begin our return leg to Ushuaia. Take the opportunity to share photographs with fellow travellers, enjoy some final lectures from polar experts and speak with the WWF-Australia team about their whale research findings from their time on the Peninsula. Ultimately, Dr Friedlaender and his team hope that their research will lead to the establishment of an Antarctic marine protection area, preventing krill fishing in the region and safeguarding the health of baleen whales. With The Intrepid Foundation helping to facilitate this research voyage and supporting WWF-Australia’s Protecting Antarctic Giants project, this is a cause to get behind. Your last days on board are also a great opportunity to make use of the Ocean Endeavour’s health and wellness facilities, including its saunas, spa, heated pool, yoga classes and gym.
Accommodation
Ocean Endeavour (2 nights)
Meals Included
Breakfast (2)
Lunch (2)
Dinner (2)

Day 10 :
At Sea

As above.

Your Antarctic adventure draws to a close after breakfast this morning. Farewell your shipmates and transfer to the airport if you’re flying out today, or perhaps spend some more time exploring this incredible part of the world.
Accommodation
Ocean Endeavour (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Special Information
If you would like to further support WWF-Australia’s Protecting Antarctic Giants project via the Intrepid Foundation, find out more at theintrepidfoundation.org/wwf.

Package Inclusions

Includes

  • Meals - 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners
  • Transport - Expedition Cruise Ship, Zodiac
  • Accommodation - Comfortable Hotel (1 night), Expedition Cruise Ship (9 nights)

Excludes

  • Additional costs such as meals not included on itinerary, drinks and souvenirs
  • Transport to and from the airport
  • Flights to Argentina

Accommodation

Comfortable Hotel (1 night), Expedition cruise ship (9 nights)

Transport

If you’re going to explore Antarctica, you might as well do it right. The Ocean Endeavour is comfortable, spacious and the place to be in the Antarctic season. Not only is it one of the few polar expedition ships in Antarctica, it also has one crew member for every eight travellers. This means you’ll enjoy a more personal, informative and comfortable trip. With a gym, library, wide range of cabin types, modern Zodiacs, and superb views, the Ocean Endeavour is quite literally the coolest way to take the trip of a lifetime.

DECK PLAN

LEARN MORE

While every care has been taken to ensure the prices and availability of this tour is locked in, we do sometimes experience fluctuations and changes from our suppliers and ground operators. While every effort will be made to ensure this has no impact on the overall cost of your trip, if this cannot be done, you will be notified immediately with options.

Please note that we are working in remote destinations and sometimes changes to the itinerary are unavoidable. While we endeavour to ensure we stick to the set itinerary, changes may occur prior to travel and while on location. Also, note that wildlife is never guaranteed nor predictable. We are travelling during times of high probability of wildlife experiences; however, this is never 100% guaranteed. 

FLIGHTS

Flights are NOT included with this package unless otherwise stated. Please discuss with us the timing requirements for arrival and departure if you are organising your flights. If you wish us to book flights, we can arrange this also.

PRICING

All prices are quoted in Australian Dollars. Typically, prices are based on two passengers travelling together. Solo traveller supplements may be applicable. Special offer pricing has already been applied to the website pricing displayed, unless it is stated otherwise.

PASSPORTS & VISAS

Passports must have a validity of at least 6 months or longer than your intended stay overseas. Visas to some countries are required for Australian Passport holders. Visas can be purchased on arrival in most countries, but please note, for entry into certain countries a visa must be applied for online before travel. Some visa fees are payable in US Dollars cash only. Some countries have a requirement making it necessary to have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Please check with us regarding visa requirements.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN

Travelling with children under 18 years of age through certain countries may require further documentation in addition to their valid passport. As requirements can change, please check with us.

HEALTH & FITNESS

Please consult your GP or Travel Doctor for up-to-date medical advice. A minimum level of fitness is required to be able to participate in a Where Wild Things Roam Travel tour. In addition, some tours may require you to disclose your body weight. Please check with us to ensure that you can meet the relevant requirements. COVID19 declarations must be completed before travelling and conditions of these must be met, otherwise your travel will be cancelled.

LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS

Luggage restrictions may apply to your tour where safari vehicles or light aircraft are utilised. Please check your trip dossier for detail on this and what is suggested to pack. 

BOOKING

A non-refundable deposit of 25% per person is required within seven days of booking confirmation along with a signed Booking Form. Some tours and arrangements may impose a higher non-refundable deposit – please check at the time of booking. Payment of deposit and a signed Booking Form represents acceptance of Where Wild Things Roam Travel Terms & Conditions by the client. The final balance of payment must be received no later than 60 days before departure.

LATE BOOKINGS

Bookings made within 30 days of travel from Australia will require full payment immediately.

AMENDMENT FEE

An amendment fee of AU$50 will be levied to cover communication and administration costs for any changes to bookings. This is in addition to any airline and operator fees.

ADDITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS

We can organise additional arrangements such as hotels and car hire not forming part of a package. Just ask us at the time of booking.

CANCELLATIONS

While we appreciate that circumstances change and travel regulations may vary, we will always try to be flexible with changes to your booking. Cancellations must be received in writing and will take effect from the date received by Where Wild Things Roam Travel. The following cancellation charges will apply to the tour costs.

  • More than 60 days before departure: Deposit only
  • 60-49 days before departure: 40%
  • 48-31 days before departure: 60%
  • 30-0 days before departure: 100%

These charges can vary subject to the trading terms of our suppliers as some do impose higher cancellation fees on certain tours. The non-issuing of an invoice or non-payment of the deposit will not exempt clients from these cancellation and administration fees. We regret we can make no exception to the charges and strongly recommend that comprehensive travel insurance is taken out at the time of booking to cover cancellation fees.

INSURANCE

We strongly recommend that a comprehensive travel insurance policy be taken out at the time of paying the deposit. Where Wild Things Roam Travel will NOT accept responsibility for loss of deposit/full payment, loss or damage to baggage and personal items, personal illness or injury, medical expenses, cancellation or curtailment of your trip.

TRAVEL SAFETY

For the latest government advice on travel safety and security, please visit and register your holiday on www.smartraveller.gov.au 

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING PRICES

Much care has gone into the composition of itineraries and prices, however, circumstances beyond our control such as currency devaluation, fuel or airfare surcharges, imposition of new or amended Government charges (i.e VAT) may necessitate an increase in cost. Where Wild Things Roam Travel cannot be held responsible for these changes. Should this occur at any time until the departure date, you will be notified as soon as possible, and regardless of deposit or total payment having been made, any increase is to be paid by the client. If such an increase is unacceptable, the client may cancel the booking, though, in so doing, is still liable to pay any cancellation charges imposed by our suppliers. While every effort has been made to ensure prices are accurate, please use the brochure as a guideline only, as rates are subject to change.

OUR RESPONSIBILITY

Where Wild Things Roam Travel uses local ground operators in the country of travel. The standards of accommodation and other services are based on various factors, which are generally accepted as indicated by a certain class. However, we do not represent or guarantee that standard, class or fitness for purpose of the accommodation or service. Where Wild Things Roam Travel does not accept any liability of whatever nature for the acts, omissions or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of those airlines, local operators, shipping companies, hoteliers or other persons providing services in connection with your tour under a contract between them and yourselves and over whom we have no direct and exclusive control. We do not accept liability for any injury, damage, loss, delay, change of itinerary when required, additional expense or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by events which are beyond our control, or which are not preventable by reasonable diligence on our part including, but not limited to war, civil disturbances, fire, floods, unusually severe weather, acts of God, acts of Government or any other authorities, accidents to, or failure of, machinery or equipment, or industrial action (whether or not involving our employees and even though such actions may be settled by acceding to demands of a labour group).

Intrepid Travel Terms & Conditions can be found here for flexipledge and booking conditions.

Intrepid Travel Trip Notes can be found here.

Antarctic Voyages (Ocean Endeavour) T&Cs

Important Notice to You:

Please take the time to read and understand the conditions of booking set out below prior to booking a cruise with us. We strongly recommend that you also read the pre-departure information we supply to you to ensure that you understand the itinerary, style and physical demands of the Cruise you are undertaking.

  1. Our contract

All bookings are made with your local Intrepid entity as set out in clause 25, acting as agent for Ocean Endeavour Expeditions Pty Ltd (ACN 629 568 467) (us/we).These Cruise Booking Conditions govern the delivery of the  voyage on the Ocean Endeavour ship to you. By booking a Cruise with us you have agreed to be bound by:

  1. these Cruise Booking Conditions;
  2. any pre-departure information that is supplied to you;
  3. to the extent they apply to you the additional waivers, set out below:
    1. the minor waiver
    2. the Pregnancy waiver;
    3. the Camping waiver; and
    4. the Kayaking waiver

(which constitutes the entire agreement between you and us).

Your booking will be accepted by us on this basis. The services to be provided are those referred to in your booking confirmation invoice.

  1. Deposit requirement

You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of 20% of the full voyage cost (before any discount) per person per Cruise for your booking to be confirmed. If your booking is made within 95 days of the departure date, then the full amount is payable at the time of booking.

  1. Acceptance of booking and final payments

A contract will exist between you and us from the date your deposit, or if you book within 95 days of departure when your full payment, is accepted. Please refer to your booking confirmation invoice for details regarding final payments, including how to make the payment. Payment of the balance of the trip price is due 95 days before the departure date. If this balance is not paid on or before the due date we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled and any cancellation charges outlined at clause 6 (Cancellation by You) will apply.

  1. Prices and surcharges

Our Cruise prices may vary at any time in accordance with demand, market conditions and availability. Your best option if you like the price you see is to book at that time. Any reduced pricing or discounts that may become available after you have paid your deposit will not apply. If you wish to cancel your booking to take advantage of a cheaper price, full cancellation conditions apply as set out below in clause 6 (Cancellation by You). We reserve the right to impose surcharges prior to departure due to unfavourable changes in exchange rates, fuel surcharges and increases in fuel costs, increases in airfares or other transportation costs, increases in local operator costs, taxes, or if government action should require us to do so. In such instances we will be responsible for any amount up to 2% of the Cruise price and you will be responsible for the balance. If any surcharge results in an increase of more than 10% of the Cruise price you may cancel the booking within 14 days of notification of the surcharge and obtain a full refund. Please note that a surcharge may be applied to a purchase made by credit card.

  1. Your details

For us to confirm your travel arrangements, you must provide all requested details with the balance of the Cruise price, and any additional details or clarifications required prior to your embarkation. Necessary details include but are not limited to full name as per passport, date of birth, nationality, passport number, passport issue and expiry date, applicable waivers and any pre-existing medical conditions you have which may affect your ability to complete your travel arrangements. For more information about how we treat your personal information please refer to our Privacy Policy.

  1. Cancellation by you

6.1 If you cancel some or all portions of your booking, including any optional activities, the cancellation terms set out below will apply. A cancellation will only be effective when we receive written confirmation that you have sent to your relevant sales representative of the cancellation. If you cancel a Cruise:

6.1.1. 95 days or more before departure we will retain your deposit; or

6.1.2. fewer than 95 days before departure the cancellation fee is 100% of monies paid.

6.2 Customers booking in the United Kingdom and Europe may have additional rights when cancelling due to “unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances”.

6.3 You are strongly advised to take out cancellation insurance at the time of booking. The above cancellation terms are in addition to fees which may be levied by accommodation providers, travel agents or third-party tour and transport operator fees.

6.4 If you fail to join a Cruise, join it after departure or leave a Cruise for any reason after it has commenced, we are not obliged to make any refunds for unused services. You will not be entitled to make a claim for damages and we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that you may have incurred as a result of your booking including but not limited to visas, vaccinations, travel insurance excess or non-refundable flights.

  1. Cancellation by us
  1. 1. Except when your trip is cancelled due to a Force Majeure Event (as defined below in this clause 7), if we cancel your Cruise, yyou have the choice of a 100% credit of monies paid for your Cruise or receive a refund.

Cancellation due to Force Majeure

  1. 2. If a trip is cancelled due to a Force Majeure Event, we can offer you a choice of:

7.2.1. a 100% credit of monies paid for your Cruise; or
7.2.2. a refund minus unrecoverable costs.

  1. 3. If the cancellation due to a Force Majeure Event occurs after a Cruise has commenced, we can offer you a choice of a pro-rata:

7.3.1. 110% credit for the days that remain on your Cruise after the point of your disembarkation; or
7.3.2 a refund minus unrecoverable costs of the days that remain on your Cruise after the point of your disembarkation.

  1. 4. Any credit resulting from a cancellation under this clause 7 (Cancellation by us):

7.4.1. may be applied towards any other available Cruise on the Ocean Edndeavour to be taken before April 2024;
7.4.2. is not redeemable for cash;
7.4.3. excludes flights or insurance as they will have their own booking conditions.

  1. 5. In the event of cancellation, there will be no claim for damages by either party against the other and we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that you may have incurred as a result of your booking including but not limited to visas, vaccinations, travel insurance excess or non-refundable flights. This also includes the costs of being on board for mandatory quarantine or repatriation flights if we are required to disembark passengers at an alternative port.
  1. 6. A “Force Majeure Event” includes but is not limited to: acts of God; war; civil commotion; riot; blockade or embargo; fire; explosion; breakdown; union dispute; earthquake; epidemic, pandemic or other health emergency; faults or errors in navigation or management of this or of any other Vessel; seizure of the Vessel under legal process; any abrupt or unexpected increase in the cost of fuel or shortage of fuel; flood; windstorm or other extreme weather event; lack or failure of courses of supply; passage of any law, order, proclamation, regulation, ordinance, demand, requisition or requirement or any other act of any government authority, beyond the reasonable control of the parties, whether or not foreseeable, which would make it dangerous or not viable for a trip to commence or continue.
  1. Booking amendments

Transfers to a third party or an alternative Cruise are only permitted when operationally possible and, in the case of transferring to a third party, where the transferee meets all the requirements in relation to the Cruise. Fees may apply.

  1. Inclusions and exclusions

Unless otherwise stated in the Cruise program or literature or as otherwise agreed to in writing, the Cruise price includes:

  • all meals onboard including snacks
  • onboard lecture program from expedition staff and naturalists
  • all shore excursions and zodiac cruising (except optional activities with cost)
  • use of rubber boots on land and use of waterproof outer shell jacket
  • insulated inner jacket, yours to keep at the end of the Cruise
  • transfer from airport to hotel (Day 1) and pre-night hotel accommodation with breakfast
  • transfer from hotel accommodation to the ship for embarkation
  • transfers to airport on return to port
  • all port taxes
  • use of gym, sauna, pool and on-board jacuzzi and on-board yoga

The Cruise price does not include:

  • international or internal flights unless specified
  • airport transfers, taxes and excess baggage charges unless specified
  • meals other than those specified in the pre-departure information
  • visa and passport fees
  • travel insurance
  • optional activities and all personal expenses
  • tobacco, alcoholic or special beverages
  • miscellaneous extras
  • laundry and communication charges aboard
  • medical care
  • life jackets, waterproof outer shell jacket, insulated inner jacket and boots for minors under 16 years of age at time of travel
  • waterproof outer shell jacket and insulated inner jacket for guests who require sizing larger than 3XL
  • boots for guests who require sizing larger than men’s size 14 boots
  • gratuities for crew and expedition staff

Such goods and services, if available for purchase aboard the ship are at your own expense. Payment for all such goods and services must be made in cash or by credit card in US dollars (or other currency acceptable to us) upon demand by us prior to your disembarkation.

  1. Age and health requirements

Minimum Age. We cannot accommodate children under 8 years of age at the time of travel. If you are a parent or representative travelling with a minor under the age of 18 years old you must return a completed Minor Waiver and, if applicable, a Minor Travel Consent Form to us prior to embarkation of the Cruise. Due to the nature of our optional activities minimum ages also apply.

Maximum Age. There is no upper age limit for participating in a Cruise, although we remind you that our Cruises can be physically demanding, and you must ensure that you are suitably fit to allow full participation.

Medical requirements. Before embarking on a Cruise, you must complete a confidential medical condition form to inform us of all pre-existing illness, disabilities or pregnancy and all other conditions for which you may require medical attention during the course of the Cruise. If any such condition arises after your booking has been confirmed, you must report all such conditions to us, or the ship’s doctor before boarding, or if you have boarded, then before the ship leaves port. We shall have no liability in connection with any such condition. For more information about how we treat your personal information, please refer to our Privacy Policy.

You must also ensure that you have an adequate supply of all medicines and medical supplies needed as they may not be available on board the ship and be healthy enough physically and mentally to undertake and complete the Cruise. If requested by us, you must also have in your possession before boarding, a physician’s certificate certifying that you are physically fit and capable to undertake and complete the Cruise. If you are pregnant, you will need to return a completed pregnancy waiver to us. If there are any changes in your physical condition between providing a certificate and boarding the Cruise, you must inform us of any relevant updates.

Refusal of Passage. We reserve the right to refuse passage to a customer who has failed to give proper or correct notice of any disability, illness, pregnancy or other condition requiring special care, attention or treatment or who in our sole opinion is physically or mentally unfit for the Cruise. We also reserve the right to refuse passage to a customer who has provided any misleading information, including personal details. In such event, you are not entitled to any compensation from us.

If you embark or attempt to embark, or allow any other customer for whom you are responsible to embark, when you or such other customer is:

  • suffering from any sickness, disease, injury or infirmity bodily or mental; or
  • to his or her knowledge has been exposed to any infection or contagious disease;
  • for any other reason is likely to impair the health, safety or reasonable comfort of other persons onboard; or
  • for any reason, is refused permission to land at his or her port of destination,

you shall be responsible for any loss or expense incurred by the us directly or indirectly in consequence of such sickness, disease, injury, infirmity, exposure or refusal or permission to land unless you sought our prior consent in writing. We also reserve the right to direct your disembarkation.

Medical Services on Vessel. Any physician or medical personnel on board is an independent contractor and works directly for the customers.  Any physician or other medical personnel that renders emergency treatment and/or performs medical or surgical services, does so at the rates fixed in the “Schedule of Physician’s Charges” posted aboard the ship or as otherwise agreed to, or in the absence of, then at customary rates.

Treatment at Your Risk. All medicines and all medical or surgical services furnished by the ship’s doctor or any other physician or medical personnel (all of whom are engaged by you as independent contractors) or ship’s officers, our employees or our agents, shall be and are accepted by and at your sole risk and expense, and we shall not be responsible for the quality, nature or consequence thereof.

  1. Passport, visa and immigration documents

It is your responsibility to obtain information and to have in your possession all the required documentation and identification required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your Cruise. This includes a valid passport and all travel documents required by the relevant governmental authorities including all visas, permits and certificates (including but not limited to vaccination, inoculations or medical certificates) and insurance policies. Your passport must be valid 6 months after the last date of travel which is as set out on your itinerary. You accept full responsibility for obtaining all such documents, visas and permits prior to the start of the trips, and you are solely responsible for the full amount of costs incurred as a result of missing or defective documentation. You agree that you are responsible for the full amount of any loss or expense incurred by us that is a direct result of your failure to secure or be in possession of proper travel documentation.

  1. Travel insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our travellers and must be taken out at the time of booking. Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses, and evacuation and/ or emergency repatriation with a minimum coverage of US$500,000 for each of the categories of cover. We also strongly recommend it covers cancellation, curtailment, personal liability and loss of baggage and personal effects. You must provide your travel insurance policy number and the insurance company’s 24-hour emergency contact number prior to the departure of your Cruise; you will not be able to join the Cruise without these details. If you have travel insurance connected to your credit card or bank account please ensure you have details of the participating insurer, the insurance policy number and emergency contact number with you rather than the bank’s name and credit card details.

  1. Change of itinerary, delays, quarantine

You appreciate and acknowledge that the nature of this type of travel requires considerable flexibility and you should allow for alternatives. The itinerary provided for each Cruise is representative of the types of activities contemplated, but you acknowledge that the ship’s operation is subject to weather conditions, mechanical problems, vessel traffic, government intervention, duty to assist other vessels in distress, assistance of other vessels in distress, availability of berth facilities, and other factors which may be beyond our control including a Force Majeure Event.  Any dates and/or times specified in any timetables or otherwise which may be issued by us, or our agent, are only approximate and may be altered by us at any time and to such extent as is considered necessary in the interest of the Cruise as a whole. We will notify you as soon as possible if any changes are made. You will have no right to any refund and we will have no obligation to you or be liable for any compensation or damages, for any loss, consequential or indirect damages, expenses, loss of time or inconvenience, loss of opportunity or loss of enjoyment in respect of such changes.

Changes in Ports. If we, for any reason whatsoever consider it necessary or desirable in the good management of the voyage, we may cause the ship not to make calls at any port or ports or to land or board You or your Baggage.  You may be landed with your Baggage at the next practical port of call without any liability on our part. You must bear all expenses to such omitted port or place of final destination, subject to any applicable laws.

Quarantine. In the case of quarantine of the ship or other condition requiring detention of you, you shall bear all risks and expenses incurred. You agree to pay our charges for your food and accommodation during the period of detention, payable day by day, if you are maintained on board the Ship, and for all other quarantine fees and expenses assessed or incurred on your account.

Refusal of Permission to Land. If immigration or other government authorities refuse permission to land, or give orders for deportation, no claim by you against us on that account shall be valid.

  1. Authority on tour

Our Cruises are run by Expedition Leaders. The decision of the Expedition Leader, the Ship’s Master or any other person authorised by us (Authorised Representatives) is final on all matters likely to affect the safety or well-being of any traveller or staff member participating in the Cruise or the well-being of the communities and wildlife we visit. If you fail to comply with a decision made by an Authorised Representative, or interfere with the well-being or mobility of the group, the Authorised Representative may direct you to terminate your participation in the Cruise or any optional activities, to leave the Cruise immediately, with no right of refund, or any other action required in the circumstances, including but not limited to restricting you to your cabin. We will not be liable for any compensation, costs, damages or losses arising from such termination or action. You must at all times comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries and regions visited and generally act in a way that is respectful to the crew member and your fellow passengers and in compliance with the ship’s rules.

  1. Acceptance of risk

You acknowledge that the nature of the Cruise may be adventurous and participation involves a degree of personal risk which may be in addition to the normal course of an adventurous trip including extreme weather conditions that are subject to sudden and unexpected changes, remoteness from normal medical services, and evacuation difficulties.

You also acknowledge that you are choosing to travel at a time where you may be exposed to the COVID-19 virus which may have direct or indirect consequences including but not limited to, medical issues, border closures and/ or quarantine requirements. We will take all reasonable steps to ensure your safety and may require you to follow additional mandatory safety protocols on your trip including the completion of medical checks, signing of waivers, completion of medical assessments or evidence of extra precautions.

We use information from government foreign departments and reports from our own contacts in assessing whether the itinerary should operate. However, it is also your own responsibility to acquaint yourself with all relevant travel information, including applicable health risks and the nature of your itinerary. You acknowledge that your decision to travel is made in light of consideration of this information and you accept that you are aware of the personal risks attendant upon such travel.

To the fullest extent permitted by law and except to the extent that this disclaimer may be prohibited by Australian Consumer law or other applicable legislation, you agree to release us, our related bodies corporate, contractors, employees and agents, and any licensor or licensee from all claims and actions that you have, or may have at any time in the future, against them or any of them, howsoever arising, for personal injury, death, property damage or any other loss, damage or expense that you may suffer as a result of your participation in any trip organised with or in conjunction with the Cruise.

  1. Claims & complaints

If you have a complaint about your Cruise please inform your group leader or our local representative at the time so that they can attempt to rectify the matter. If you believe that your complaint has not been resolved through these means, then any further complaint should be put in writing through your booking agent within 30 days of the end of the Cruise.

  1. The right to photograph you

When you are travelling with us, as part of your experience a photo or video may be taken either by a crew member or one of our partners or another passenger. We care about your privacy so if you do not wish for your photograph to be taken at any time, or to be included in any video, please let your tour group leader, crew member or the photographer know. Any photos taken by our staff (including employees and group leaders) will not be used for marketing purposes without your prior knowledge. Whilst we take every precaution to protect your privacy, we are not responsible for customers who may take your photograph or video you without our knowledge.

On some occasions, we may engage professional photographers to take and obtain photos to use in our marketing materials. We ensure that all of our customers are notified prior to travelling on our trips if a professional photographer is being engaged and you have the right to say no or opt-out of being included in any photos being taken for these purposes, including any subsequent content or images use. Please refer to our Privacy Policy for more information.

  1. Changes in cabin arrangements

If, in our opinion, or the opinion of the Master or our agents, the arrangement of booked cabins must be altered, we shall have the right to allocate another cabin to You. The price of the Cruise and the standard of allocated cabin will, if possible, be substantially the same. If we are unable to offer such alternative cabin, we may cancel your booking and refund any unused fare, and You shall have no other claim against us.

  1. Baggage

Hazardous items. Under no circumstances may dangerous articles such as firearms, matches, gun powder, explosives, oxygen or combustible or illegal substances be taken aboard the ship (Hazardous Items). You are also not allowed to bring on board items or articles, the importation or exportation of which may be forbidden, or which do not conform to the customs or police regulations or the laws of any country to which the ship may go in the course of the Cruise. We may dispose of or destroy such Hazardous Items without liability. You will be liable for the full amount of all loss, damage or delay to the ship or her cargo and for all injury to, or death of any of the customers, officers or crew or other persons caused by such hazardous articles brought on board by You.

Prohibited items. In addition to Hazardous Items, you must not bring any prohibited items on board, including but not limited to, drones, other remote-controlled devices and any other devices that may contravene or invalidate our Antarctica Operating Licences including our IATO Licence (Prohibited Items). Such Prohibited Items shall be confiscated for the duration of your Cruise and returned to you upon your disembarkation. We shall not be liable to you in any way in the event that you bring Prohibited Items on board the Cruise.

  1. Third party optional activities

Your use of the services of the ship’s Wellness Centre or other personal service personnel, if carried on board, or athletic or recreational equipment, facilities or supplies, is at Your own risk and expense and may be subject to third party terms and conditions. We are not responsible for the acts and omissions, whether negligent or otherwise, of these third-party suppliers. Any disputes between you and any third party, are to be resolved solely between you and that party.

  1. Watercraft Waiver

You understand and agree that we do not bear any responsibility or liability for any excursion(s) involving watercrafts, including zodiacs, Explorer boats or any other tenders (watercraft) you may take during this Cruise. You release, hold harmless and forever discharge us, your directors, agents and employees from all liability for all damages resulting from the ownership, maintenance, use, operation or control of the watercraft(s).

  1. Liability
  1. 1. Our liability (if any) for death and/or personal injury to you and/ or the loss of or damage to Baggage during your Cruise shall be determined by the provisions of “Athens Convention Relating to the Carriage of Passengers and their Baggage by Sea 1974” as amended by 2002 Protocol (“Athens Convention”). The Athens Convention is expressly incorporated into the Conditions of Carriage: http://www.admiraltylawguide.com/conven/passengers1974.html
  1. 2. We will not be responsible or liable for loss, damage or robbery of travel documents, baggage or other possessions.
  1. 3. We acknowledge that our services which include the Cruise (“Services”) may come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under Australian Consumer Law or other applicable laws in other jurisdictions. “Australian Consumer Law” means the uniform consumer protection law set out in Schedule 2 of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) (the CCA).
  1. 4. To the maximum extent permitted by law we exclude all liability whatsoever to you or any other person (whether in contract tort or otherwise) for any loss (whether direct, indirect, consequential) including death or personal injury or damage of any kind that may be suffered as a result of any act or omission whether negligent or otherwise by or on behalf of us in connection with the Services or any other matter or thing relating to these Cruise Booking Conditions except to the extent that such loss or damage is incurred as a direct result of our fraud or wilful misconduct. This clause does not limit or exclude your rights under the CCA.
  1. 5. In addition, we shall have the full benefit of any applicable laws providing for limitation and/or exoneration of liability (including without limitation, law and the global limitation on damages recoverable from us and nothing in these Cruise Booking Conditions is intended to operate to limit or deprive us of any such statutory or otherwise limitation or exoneration of liability. Our servants and/or agents shall have the full benefit of all such provisions relating to the limitation of liability.
  2. 6. Limitation of Liability. Where the law implies a warranty into these Cruise Booking Conditions which may not lawfully be excluded (in particular warranties under the CCA) our liability for breach of such a warranty will be limited to either supplying the Services again or payment of the cost of having the services supplied again.
  1. 7. Indemnity. You indemnify us (and all of our subsidiaries, officers, employees, contractors and agents) against all losses, claims actions, proceedings, damages, costs and expenses (including legal fees) arising from any claim by a third party arising directly or indirectly out of or in connection with:
    21.7.1 your access or use of the Services, this includes your delegate’s access or use of the Services; and
    21.7.2 any breach by you (or your delegate) of:

21.7.2.1 these Cruise Booking Conditions; or
21.7.2.2.any additional terms applicable to providing the Services,

except to the extent that such loss or damage as a direct result of our fraud or wilful misconduct.

  1. 8. We are not liable for or in connection with or arising out of any acts or omissions of any kind of any independent sub-contractors on board the ship and/or ashore.
  1. 9. These Cruise Booking Conditions, including any limitation of liability provisions, are applicable to any shore excursions or optional activities purchased from and or provided by us.
  1. 10. Vicarious liability. We shall not be held vicariously liable for the intentional or negligent acts of any persons not employed by us nor for any intentional or negligent acts of our employees committed while off duty or outside the course and scope of their employment.
  1. Severability

In the event that any term or condition contained in these Cruise Booking Conditions is unenforceable or void by operation of law or as being against public policy or for any other reason, then such term or condition shall be deemed to be severed from this contract or amended accordingly only to such extent necessary to allow all remaining terms and conditions to survive and continue as binding.

  1. Privacy policy

Any personal information that we collect about you will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy and may be used for any purpose associated with the operation of a Cruise. In making this booking you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons such as our agents, service providers or other suppliers to enable us to operate the trip or, if permitted by any relevant Spam laws, to send you marketing material in relation to our events and special offers.

You are responsible for reviewing this Privacy Policy periodically and informing yourself of any changes to this Privacy Policy.

  1. Applicable law

The laws of Victoria, Australia govern these Cruise Booking Conditions to the fullest extent allowable. Any disputes in connection with a trip or these Cruise Booking Conditions must be initiated in the courts of Victoria, Australia.

  1. Booking Entity

Depending on the country or region you are making your booking from, you will be booking through the following Intrepid entity acting as an agent on behalf of Ocean Endeavour Expeditions Pty Ltd (ACN 629 568 467):

  • Australia: Intrepid Travel Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 34 126 440 033)
  • New Zealand: Intrepid Travel New Zealand Limited
    1836592)
  • United States: Intrepid US, Inc
  • Canada:  Intrepid Travel Incorporated (BN 811474477)
  • Germany, Austria and Switzerland Booking Conditions: Intrepid Travel GmbH acting as agent for Intrepid Travel Pty Ltd (ABN 35 007 172 456)
  • South Africa:  Intrepid Travel Group UK Limited (01826936)
  • Rest of the World: bookings are made directly with Intrepid Travel Pty Ltd (ABN 35 007 172 456)

If you are booking through a third party travel agent, the Intrepid entity is Intrepid Travel Pty Ltd (ABN 35 007 172 456).

 

  1. Assignment and Registered address

We can assign or otherwise transfer any of our rights or obligations under these Cruise Booking Conditions, including novation to a related body corporate (as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth)), at its sole discretion on written notice to You (including notice via the Website).

Level 7, 567 Collins St, Melbourne VIC, 3000, Australia.

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