Terms & Conditions

Liveaboards.com.au is part of the HotGetaways group, which abide by the following terms and conditions

1. Introduction
1.1 Please read these terms and conditions carefully.
1.2 By making a booking, you acknowledge and agree that:
(a) you are 18 years of age or older;
(b) As the person making the booking, you are authorized to act on behalf of all travellers and binds them to these terms.
1.3 References to “Hot Getaways,” “us,” “we,” and/or “our” refer to Hot Getaways PTY LTD (ABN 19 135 411 595).
1.4 References to “Terms and Conditions” or “Agreement” means this written document.
1.5 References to “service provider”, “supplier”, or “operator”, are references to the person, business, company, or entity who provides the service, tour, or event the subject of your booking.

2. Agency
2.1. By making a booking through our websites, you acknowledge and agree that:
(a) you have read, understood, accept, and are bound by these Terms and Conditions;
(b) we act solely as an agent for and sell travel-related products and services on behalf of various providers, each with its own terms;
(c) Our obligations to you are strictly limited to facilitating bookings, arranging contracts between you and the service provider, handling documentation, facilitating any payment from you to the service provider, and assisting in refunds or compensation (where available).
(d) We do not operate or provide the tours, events, experiences, or services purchased, but merely act as booking agent for the actual provider;
(e) Upon making a booking, you have entered into a contract with the travel service provider, and any legal rights are against them, not us; and
(f) to the maximum extent permitted at law, you have no claim against Hot Getaways in respect of any booking.

3. Pricing & Payment Policy
3.1. All pricing and transactions are conducted in Australian Dollars ($AUD), at the exchange rate applicable at the date of the booking. Hot Getaways is not accountable for changes in currency exchange rates and any resulting impacts on transaction amounts.
3.2. Quoted prices are subject to potential changes at the discretion of the service provider or due to circumstances beyond our control, even after the initial payment is completed. You will be responsible for any and all additional costs imposed by the service provider.
3.3. While we aim to communicate any extra costs during booking and on your ticket, it remains your responsibility to confirm additional costs with each service provider when reconfirming your trip, and to pay all such further costs. These extra costs may encompass EMC fees, ‘Stingersuit’/Wetsuit Hire, Luggage Storage, Insurance, Linen Hire, National Park Fees, Fuel Levies, Dietary Fees, etc.
3.4. You have no claim for reimbursement (or any other claim) against Hot Getaways in relation to any further payments you are required to make to the service provider, or for any loss if you do not make extra payments required and the service provider cancels or does not honour your booking as a result.
3.5. We accept Visa Cards and Mastercards through Eway. Please note that credit card payments incur processing fees.

4. Cancellation Policy
4.1. This section provides a general overview. For detailed cancellation policies specific to each tour, please refer to the “Policy” section on the respective tour’s page, as cancellation policies may vary among operators.
4.2. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Please note that our office is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm (closed on Public Holidays), and emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day. Please be aware that cancellation attempts made through online chat or phone will not be processed.
4.3. In the event of cancellations, a 20% Hot Getaways cancellation fee will apply, and will be deducted from any refund to which you are entitled, in addition to any cancellation fees imposed by the tour operator.
4.4. Supplier-Initiated Cancellations:
4.4.1. The service provider reserves the right to change prices, itineraries, apply fuel surcharges, cancel departures, arrange alternative transport, and modify services if necessary.
4.4.2. Departures and itineraries are weather-dependent. Tours may be altered or cancelled at the service provider’s discretion. If the service provider cancels the trip or activity before departure, and if they agree to issue a refund according to their terms, and we cannot provide a suitable alternative, you will receive a refund minus a 20% administration fee, and any associated card fees will be deducted. It is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance, especially during the wet season. We are not responsible for alternative accommodation or tours, nor liable for any other direct or indirect loss, expense, inconvenience, or disappointment.
4.4.3. Hot Getaways is not responsible for refunds not received from a product or service provider. In the event of any costs incurred by Hot Getaways due to your cancellation or amendment, you agree to indemnify us for those costs.

5. Medical Conditions and Fitness:
5.1. Certain activities, such as scuba diving and rafting, may require a specific level of fitness and/or a medical declaration.
5.2. If you book a tour and are subsequently unable to participate due to medical reasons, no refunds will be provided. It is your responsibility to carefully review the specified requirements for each tour before booking.

6. Changes made to booking
6.1. Changes to any booking are subject to agreement by the service provider/supplier, at the service provider/supplier’s absolute discretion and subject to availability, as well as their own terms and conditions.
6.2. Any such changes will be subject to you being responsible for any additional costs or charges imposed by the service provider, and accompanied by a $20 administration fee.

7. Refunds
7.1. All refunds will be processed in Australian Dollars and are to be credited to the original payment card used for the transaction. Hot Getaways disclaims any responsibility for fluctuations in exchange rates, associated fees, or any additional charges imposed by banks or merchants, whether domestic or international.
7.2. Where a full refund is applicable, there is the option to request the transfer the whole cost of the tour to another tour or “Credit” to avoid the 20% cancellation fee. A transfer fee of $20 will apply. Any such option is subject to agreement by the service provider and availability, and you will be responsible for any additional costs for the replacement service booked.
7.3. Whilst we normally attempt to process refunds swiftly, situations (such as natural disasters) may result in up to 90 days processing time, due to high volume. Refunds must be placed back onto the same valid Visa or Mastercard that you used to pay for your booking.

8. Open-dated tickets
8.1. In certain scenarios, an open-dated ticket may be offered. Open dated tickets are valid for one year from the original booking date, are not refundable and subject to the suppliers terms and conditions. Any price difference due to fare increases will need to be paid at the time of rebooking.

9. Liability
9.1. We act only as a booking agent for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
9.2. We exercise care in the selection of reputable travel service providers, but we have no control over, or liability for, the products and services provided by third parties and we cannot guarantee the performance of any travel service provider.
9.3. By making a booking, you acknowledge and agree that we are not liable to you for changes to tours, pricing, or itineraries, all of which are subject to change by the service provider without notice.
9.4. We accept no liability for any loss or out-of-pocket costs incurred as a result of the cancellation or change in the itinerary, however caused (direct or indirect).
9.5. By making a booking and accepting these Terms and Conditions, you acknowledge and agree that to the maximum extent permitted by law, you release Hot Getaways from any and all claims in respect of the booking and the service provided by the service provider, including any personal injury or property loss or damage, other than a claim relating to the service provider not receiving from Hot Getaways any payment.
9.6. Neither this site nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, any loss, any damage, delays, deaths or personal injury.

10. Special requirements
10.1. If you have any special requirements for your booking, including disability access requests, seating requests, special meals, food allergies, room types or amenities, please let us know prior to making your booking. It may not be possible for us to request special arrangements after a booking has been made.

11. Travel Insurance
11.1. It is strongly recommended that all passengers acquire comprehensive travel insurance, covering trip cancellation, force majeure events, medical and repatriation expenses, personal injuries and accidents, as well as protection against the loss of personal baggage and money, and personal liability.
11.2. Additionally, ensure that your travel insurance adequately covers special circumstances, including weather events and cancelled flights due to unforeseen circumstances. In the event of a severe storm or named cyclone in the region during the cyclone season (December to April), securing insurance well in advance is advised, covering force majeure events like natural disasters, to mitigate potential financial implications.
11.3. You acknowledge and agree that Hot Getaways is not responsible for any loss or damage you suffer as a result of a failure to obtain sufficient comprehensive travel insurance.
11.4. While we prioritise client safety, it’s important to acknowledge the inherent risks in adventure travel. We cannot assume responsibility for personal injury or loss resulting from actions beyond our control. Therefore, we highly recommend that all clients carefully review their insurance policy to confirm coverage for potential activities and unforeseen events.

12. Privacy Policy
12.1. We collect necessary details for bookings and personalisation purposes. Your data is utilized for managing bookings, communication, and enhancing our services. Trusted third-party providers may receive relevant information to facilitate travel arrangements.
12.2. Your information is safeguarded using industry-standard measures. While we strive for complete online security, it cannot be guaranteed. Cookies may be utilized to enhance your website experience.
12.3. External links on our site are beyond our privacy control. You have the option to review, update, or delete your information at any time. Policy updates may occur, and it is your responsibility to stay informed about any changes.

TRAVEL & DIVE INSURANCE

For the safety of all participants, most operators require everyone to complete a medical declaration form before engaging in any activities, including but not limited to boat tours, scuba diving, skydiving, rafting, and other adventure activities. For children, this form must be filled out and signed by a parent or guardian. All questions must be answered honestly, as it is a legal document. Certain medical conditions and/or medications may prevent participation in some activities. If you are unsure about a medical or health condition or a medication, please contact the operator for further guidance.

MEDICAL DECLARATIONS

FLYING & SCUBA DIVING

You should not travel to a high altitude (fly or drive above 8000 feet) within 18 hours of completing a single scuba dive or 24 hours after multiple dives OR after any ‘deep’ dive. (A deep dive is considered any dive over 18 meters/60 feet)

We recommend leaving a minimum of 24 hours after your last scuba dive before flying. You can fly and then dive the same day – but not dive and then fly. Please consider this when arranging ongoing travel plans, which include flying or driving to altitude

Skydive & hot air ballooning customers must allow a minimum of 24 hours after scuba diving before participating in skydiving or ballooning activities

Note: Tours advertised on this website which include scuba diving activities and scenic helicopter tours over reef as a ‘package tour’ use low flying air crafts in which flying after scuba diving is permitted. If unsure,e please check with the operator prior to your flight

ALL SCUBA DIVING

Age, medical and health restrictions apply for all scuba diving activities in Australia – and are stricter than in many other countries. This information applies to certified divers, beginner/resort divers and anyone participating in scuba dive training. We advise all scuba divers not to assume that because it is considered safe for you to scuba dive in another country that it will be fine in Australia – please do your homework and avoid any potential disappointment.

*If you are thinking about trying a scuba dive, please read the Information pages on the website, or ‘Contact Us’ to ensure that you are fit to dive according to Australia’s regulations

SCUBA DIVER VERIFICATION

Qualified (certified) divers are required to provide proof of their certification level. Your scuba qualification must be ‘Open Water Level’ or higher, for you to go diving as a Certified Diver. This will be checked by the Dive Supervisor at the start of your trip. If unable to verify your certification level, all operators reserve the right to refuse a person scuba diving as a certified diver.

We are able help verify your diver rating in the case of lost/missing licenses but must be contacted in advance of your travel date. For most major dive agencies, we can often assist you to find proof of your qualification via the training agency if we are given enough time in advance of your trip. See ‘Contact Us’.

Last Updated 27 June 2024