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Terms & Conditions

Please read these terms carefully before booking your Antarctic adventure. By booking with us, you agree to these terms.

Last updated: January 2025

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing antarcticadirect.com ("the Website") or booking any adventure through Antarctica Direct ("we," "us," "our"), you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our services.

2. Booking & Payment

2.1 Reservations: All bookings are subject to availability and confirmation by Antarctica Direct. A deposit is required to secure your reservation.

2.2 Pricing: All prices are quoted in USD (US Dollars). Prices are based on current rates and may be subject to change until booking is confirmed. We reserve the right to adjust prices due to changes in operator fees, fuel surcharges, currency fluctuations, or other factors beyond our control.

2.3 Payment Terms: Payment plans are available. Full payment is typically required 90 days before departure, or as specified in your booking confirmation. Late payments may result in cancellation with applicable fees.

2.4 Currency: All transactions are processed in USD. International customers may see currency conversion fees from their financial institution.

3. Our Relationship with ALE

Antarctica Direct operates as an affiliate partner of Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions (ALE). When you book with us:

  • Your adventure is operated by ALE, the premier Antarctic expedition operator
  • We act as your booking agent and customer service provider
  • All operational decisions, safety protocols, and on-ice logistics are managed by ALE
  • We work closely with ALE to ensure your booking is handled professionally and efficiently

4. Cancellation & Refund Policy

Cancellations must be made in writing to hello@antarcticadirect.com. Refund eligibility depends on timing and is subject to ALE's cancellation policy, which we follow closely. Please refer to our Refund Policy for detailed information.

Key points:

  • Cancellation fees apply based on proximity to departure date
  • Refunds may be subject to processing fees
  • Force majeure events may affect refund eligibility
  • Travel insurance is strongly recommended

5. Adventure Changes & Modifications

5.1 Itinerary Changes: Antarctic expeditions operate in extreme conditions. Weather, logistics, and safety may require itinerary modifications. We and ALE reserve the right to alter routes, activities, or schedules without liability, provided the core adventure objectives are maintained.

5.2 Schedule Changes: Flight schedules are subject to weather conditions and operational requirements. Delays, early departures, or extended stays may occur. We are not liable for additional costs incurred due to schedule changes.

5.3 Adventure Cancellation: If an adventure is cancelled by ALE or us due to operational or safety reasons, we will offer alternative dates or a full refund (less any non-refundable expenses already incurred).

6. Participant Requirements

6.1 Health & Fitness: Antarctic adventures require a reasonable level of health and fitness. Some adventures require specific physical capabilities (e.g., mountaineering, skiing). You are responsible for assessing your fitness level and disclosing any medical conditions that may affect your participation.

6.2 Documentation: You are responsible for obtaining valid passports, visas (if required), and any necessary travel permits. We are not liable for refusal of entry due to inadequate documentation.

6.3 Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and adventure activities is mandatory for all participants. We recommend policies specifically covering polar travel.

7. Liability & Assumption of Risk

7.1 Assumption of Risk: Antarctic travel involves inherent risks including extreme weather, remote locations, limited medical facilities, and physical challenges. By booking, you acknowledge and accept these risks.

7.2 Limitation of Liability: To the maximum extent permitted by law, Antarctica Direct, ALE, and their respective operators, employees, and agents are not liable for:

  • Personal injury, illness, or death resulting from participation
  • Loss or damage to personal belongings
  • Consequential, indirect, or incidental damages
  • Costs incurred due to weather-related delays or cancellations
  • Acts of third parties, natural disasters, or force majeure events

7.3 Maximum Liability: Our total liability is limited to the amount paid for the specific adventure booked.

8. Force Majeure

We are not liable for failure to perform obligations due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including natural disasters, pandemics, government actions, war, terrorism, airline strikes, or severe weather conditions affecting Antarctic operations. In such cases, we will work with you to reschedule or provide refunds as circumstances permit, subject to policies set forth by ALE.

9. Intellectual Property

All content on antarcticadirect.com, including text, images, logos, and designs, is protected by copyright and trademark laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, or use our content without written permission.

10. Privacy

Your privacy is important to us. Please review our Privacy Policy to understand how we collect, use, and protect your personal information.

11. Dispute Resolution

11.1 Governing Law: These terms are governed by the laws of the jurisdiction in which Antarctica Direct operates, without regard to conflict of law principles.

11.2 Dispute Process: We encourage direct communication to resolve any disputes. If a resolution cannot be reached, disputes shall be resolved through binding arbitration or in a court of competent jurisdiction.

12. Changes to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms and Conditions at any time. Material changes will be communicated to existing bookings. Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the modified terms.

13. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms and Conditions, please contact us:

Important: By booking with Antarctica Direct, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms and Conditions. These terms constitute a legally binding agreement between you and Antarctica Direct.