Terms & Conditions

Moon Tours

MOON TOURS TERMS & CONDITIONS

*Last Updated:February 28, 2025 *

1. GENERAL TERMS & ASSUMPTION OF RISK

By booking a tour with Moon Tours, you acknowledge that adventure tourism involves inherent risks across a range of activities, including but not limited to:

  • 4WD travel, off-road driving, and remote wilderness exploration
  • Surfing, Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP), and other water sports
  • Fishing, both inland and deep-sea
  • African safaris and wildlife encounters
  • River and ocean cruises
  • Boat and yacht charters
  • Other overseas adventure travel
  • 4WD travel, off-road driving, and remote wilderness exploration
  • Extreme weather conditions
  • Wildlife encounters and environmental hazards
  • Water-based activities, including river crossings, open-sea travel, and participation in water sports such as surfing, paddleboarding, and fishing
  • Limited medical assistance in remote areas
  • Physical exertion, terrain challenges, and potential vehicle damage

You accept full responsibility for your safety, vehicle, and equipment and agree to adhere to local laws and driving conditions. Moon Tours is not responsible for any injury, loss, damage, or death that may occur during participation in any tour activity.

2. VACCINATION & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

  • Some Indigenous communities in Australia may require proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
  • As of the time of writing, the Maldives and most African countries no longer require proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
  • You are responsible for checking and complying with all vaccination, entry, and transit requirements for your destination, including airline regulations, as these are subject to change.

Moon Tours does not offer COVID-19-related refunds or special terms. Travel insurance that covers COVID-19-related cancellations is strongly recommended.

3. INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

Travel insurance is mandatory and must be obtained at the time of booking.

Your policy should cover:

  • Medical expenses & emergency evacuation
  • Trip cancellations & missed services
  • Personal liability & property damage
  • Comprehensive vehicle insurance (for 4WD tours)
  • Public liability insurance

Moon Tours is not responsible for any uninsured losses or damages to your vehicle, personal property, or third-party property.

4. FITNESS & MEDICAL DECLARATION

By booking a tour, you confirm that:

  • You are physically and medically fit to participate.
  • You have sought professional medical advice if necessary.
  • You understand that medical assistance may be limited due to the remote nature of the tour.

Moon Tours does not provide medical advice or treatment and is not responsible for any pre-existing or arising medical conditions during the tour.

5. PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY & CODE OF CONDUCT

All participants must:

• Drive responsibly and comply with local road rules & conditions.

• Follow proper surfing and SUP etiquette, including priority rules, respecting other water users, and ensuring safety in the lineup.

• Approach wildlife encounters with caution, following ethical guidelines to avoid disturbing animals.

• Act responsibly during fishing activities, adhering to local regulations and sustainable practices.

• Conduct themselves respectfully on river and ocean cruises, boat charters, and all adventure travel, ensuring their actions do not negatively impact others or the environment.

• Accept full responsibility for technical off-road driving, steep hills, loose rock, water crossings, and any challenges they choose to undertake.

• Assume full responsibility for personal safety while surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, or participating in any water-based activities. Moon Tours does not assess participants’ ability or skill level, and all activities are voluntary and undertaken at the participant’s own risk.

• Acknowledge that the natural environment is unpredictable, and conditions such as waves, currents, tides, and wildlife interactions are beyond Moon Tours’ control.

• Follow all safety instructions; however, this does not imply that Moon Tours assumes responsibility for any risks associated with participation. Each participant remains solely responsible for their decisions and actions.

• Respect fellow participants and avoid behavior that disturbs the peace.

Moon Tours does not accept responsibility for injuries, accidents, or mishaps occurring in the surf, ocean, rivers, or other natural settings. Additionally, Moon Tours is not responsible for any incidents arising from wildlife encounters, driving on public roads and tracks, or the inherent risks associated with remote adventure travel. Participants acknowledge that these risks exist and take full responsibility for their own safety and actions.

Moon Tours reserves the right to remove any participant whose behavior endangers themselves, others, or the integrity of the experience. While participants are encouraged to bring concerns to Moon Tours, they must do so in a manner that does not disrupt the enjoyment or safety of other paying guests. Any behavior that negatively impacts the experience of others, including but not limited to harassment, reckless conduct, or refusal to follow reasonable instructions, may result in removal from the tour without refund.

6. PAYMENT TERMS

  • ** • A minimum deposit of $1000 (in the currency of the tour rate) or 30% of the total tour value, whichever is greater, is required to secure a booking.**

    • An initial $1000 deposit is processed online at the time of booking.

    • An invoice will be issued for any remaining deposit balance, which must be paid in full within 7 days of receipt.

  • Deposits are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable under any circumstances.

Final Balance:

  • 90 days before departure (international tours & private boat charters)
  • 60 days before departure (Australian 4WD tours)
  • Failure to pay on time may result in cancellation and loss of deposit.

Payment Methods & Fees:

Payment Method Fees
Credit Card (Initial Online Deposit $1000AUD/USD) No additional fees
Credit Card (Amounts above $1000) 4.5% (USD) / 2.5% (AUD)
Bank Transfer (USD) Details provided on invoice
AUD Bank Transfers $50AUD conversion fee & NAB FX exchange rate applied

7. CANCELLATION & REFUND

  • 365 days or more before departure (any tour): A non-refundable deposit of $1000 in the invoiced currency will be retained. Guests may request to transfer this deposit to another tour date, subject to availability and approval by Moon Tours.

  • Less than 365 days before departure (any tour): A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total tour value will be retained.
  • 90 days or more before departure (applies to all tours except Australian-based 4WD tag-along tours): 30% of the invoice value will be retained.
  • 60 days or more before departure (Australian-based 4WD tours only): 30% of the invoice value will be retained.
  • 89 days or less before departure (applies to all tours except Australian-based 4WD tag-along tours): 100% of the invoice value will be retained and no refunds will be issued, regardless of the reason for cancellation.
  • 59 days or less before departure (Australian-based 4WD tours only): 100% of the invoice value will be retained and no refunds will be issued, regardless of the reason for cancellation.
  • Deposits are non-refundable.

Moon Tours does not provide refunds for cancellations due to force majeure, missed services, or third-party supplier cancellations. Refunds from third-party suppliers are subject to their terms & conditions. It is imperative that all guests obtain personal travel insurance to cover cancellations, missed services, and any unforeseen circumstances beyond Moon Tours’ control. 

8. FORCE MAJEURE & ITINERARY CHANGES

Moon Tours may alter the itinerary or cancel activities due to unforeseen circumstances, including but not limited to:

  • Extreme weather, road closures, or natural disasters
  • Political instability or government restrictions
  • Equipment failures or logistical delays

No refunds or compensation will be provided for force majeure events.

9. LIABILITY LIMITATIONS

Moon Tours does not own or operate third-party services, including airlines, accommodations, or transportation providers. It is neither a registered operator nor a shareholder in any overseas business or country, nor does it own any equipment related to overseas travel. As such, Moon Tours accepts no responsibility for third-party suppliers or any overseas activities, including but not limited to charter boats, cruises, surf trips, safaris, hire vehicles, or any other services provided by external operators. Any issues, liabilities, or disputes related to third-party services must be addressed directly with the provider.

  • Injuries, deaths, or property damage resulting from third-party services
  • Overbookings, delays, or cancellations beyond its control
  • Acts of God, political unrest, or terrorist activities

Each participant accepts full risk associated with adventure travel.

Overseas SUP Surf Tours

Moon Tours facilitates SUP surf tours overseas in collaboration with locally operated guiding companies. While Moon Tours organizes the trip logistics and itinerary, local operators are responsible for guiding, instruction, safety protocols, and all in-water activities.

Moon Tours does not own or operate any surf camps, boats, or guiding services used during these trips. All surf coaching, guiding, and in-water assistance are provided by third-party companies, which are solely responsible for their operations and services. Any issues, disputes, or liabilities related to these services must be addressed directly with the provider.

Participants acknowledge that surfing, paddleboarding, and other water-based activities carry inherent risks, including but not limited to:

  • Unpredictable ocean conditions (waves, currents, tides, marine life)
  • Potential for injury or accidents in the surf zone
  • Limited medical facilities in remote locations

Africa Self-Drive 4WD Safari Tour

Moon Tours operates self-drive 4WD tours in Africa where guests rent and drive their own vehicles. This is a tag-along style safari experience where participants take full responsibility for their actions, vehicle operation, and safety, including wildlife encounters and the risks of traveling in remote regions.

Moon Tours is not a registered company or guiding service in Africa and does not own, operate, or manage the vehicles used on this tour. Each guest is solely responsible for their rental vehicle, driving ability, and compliance with local road and wildlife regulations.

This tour includes a mix of accommodations, ranging from bush camping to established safari lodges and local camps. Guests are responsible for their own actions at bush camps, including safety precautions regarding wildlife.

Some aspects of the tour include optional or included guided activities provided by third-party operators. Where Moon Tours facilitates these arrangements, the third-party provider assumes full responsibility for the services provided. Any issues or disputes related to these services must be addressed directly with the provider.

Moon Tours is not liable for any accidents, injuries, vehicle damage, wildlife encounters, or third-party servicesduring the tour. Guests acknowledge that this is an adventure travel experience with inherent risks, and participation is entirely at their own risk.

10. PHOTO & MEDIA CONSENT

By booking a tour, you grant Moon Tours permission to use photographs and videos taken during the trip for promotional purposes. If you do not wish to appear in media, you must notify Moon Tours before departure.

11. PASSPORTS, VISAS & HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

• Passport, visa, and vaccination requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler. It is the participant’s duty to ensure that they have a valid passport with at least six (6) months of validity beyond their intended stay or the minimum required by the country they are traveling to.

• Travelers must obtain all necessary visas and travel permits and comply with the vaccination and health requirements of their destination country.

• Moon Tours does not provide visa assistance, guarantee entry into any country, or take responsibility for travelers who are denied entry due to improper documentation or failure to meet health regulations.

• No refunds will be provided for travelers unable to participate due to failure to meet these requirements.

• Some destinations require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination or other medical documentation. It is the traveler’s responsibility to check and comply with these requirements.

• Moon Tours is not responsible if you are denied entry due to non-compliance with travel regulations.

12. Travel Advisories & Warnings

It is the responsibility of travelers to stay informed about the most current travel advisories and warnings issued by their respective government agencies. Moon Tours does not provide travel advisory updates and encourages all participants to check with their government’s foreign affairs or travel department before departure.

If a government agency issues a travel warning regarding a specific destination, travelers who choose to proceed do so at their own risk. Moon Tours is not responsible for any personal injury, death, property damage, or losses arising from events related to such advisories or warnings.

13. Moon Tours SUNOVA SUP Rental Terms & Conditions (Maldives SUP Surfing Holidays)

SUP Rental Agreement

Participants may bring their own stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or rent a SUNOVA SUP from Moon Tours for $400 AUD. This rental fee covers exclusive use of a board for the duration of the tour and includes one minor deck repair if required. No refunds will be issued if the board is undamaged or unused.

Eligibility & Availability

  • SUP rental is only available to those who do not bring their own board.
  • Boards are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests must confirm availability and complete their booking online to secure a board.
  • Spare boards may be available in case of irreparable damage to a guest’s own board, but availability is not guaranteed.

Responsibilities & Liability

  • Renters must inspect the board before use and report any pre-existing damage to their guide or Moon Tours representative.
  • Renters are fully responsible for the board for the duration of the hire period. Any damage, regardless of how it occurred or who caused it, is the sole responsibility of the hirer.
  • Moon Tours is not responsible for any lost, damaged, or stolen boards, nor for resolving disputes between guests regarding responsibility for damage.
  • Renters assume full liability for the rented SUP and agree to use it at their own risk.

Damage & Loss Policy

Renters are financially responsible for any damage, loss, or necessary repairs. Fees apply as follows: (Payment required on-site during the tour)

  • Minor repairs (small dings, minor damages): Minimum $50 USD
  • Major repairs (rails, structural damage): Minimum $100 USD
  • Total loss (snapped/creased board): Charged at current second-hand market value (board remains in guest’s possession as a memento)
  • The renter must pay Moon Tours directly for any damage. If they wish to seek reimbursement from another party, that is solely their responsibility.
  • In many cases, temporary repairs can be carried out on the boat to allow continued use; however, this does not negate the need for a full repair. If necessary, the board may require further repairs on land or be transported to Australia or Thailand for professional servicing.

Equipment & Additional Costs

  • Paddles, leg ropes, and fins are not included in the rental. Guests must bring their own.
  • Spare equipment is available on board in case a guest loses or breaks their own.
  • Leg ropes are available for purchase at $60 USD if a guest loses or breaks their own.
  • Spare fins and paddles are provided free of charge if a guest loses or breaks their own.
  • If a guest damages or breaks a provided paddle, they will be charged a minimum of $250 USD.
  • Replacement fin sets:

    • Tri-fin: $100 USD
    • Quad-fin: $150 USD

By booking a rental SUP, guests acknowledge and accept these terms and conditions.

Travel Considerations

Moon Tours recommends that guests bring their own board if they have a specific preference. Traveling with SUPs is relatively straightforward, but guests should check baggage policies in advance.

14. General Travel Provisions & Pricing

Accommodation

  • All accommodation, room types, and specifications are outlined in the itinerary.
  • Any changes to accommodation due to unforeseen circumstances will be handled at Moon Tours’ discretion, with alternatives provided where possible.

Meals

  • Meals included in the tour are specified in the itinerary.
  • Meals are non-refundable, regardless of whether they are consumed or not.

Transfers

  • Transfers included in the itinerary are non-refundable and subject to the terms of third-party providers.

Itinerary Changes

  • Accommodation, activities, and sightseeing arrangements may change due to unforeseen circumstances or factors beyond Moon Tours’ control.
  • Every effort will be made to operate tours as planned, but alterations may be necessary after the final itinerary has been issued.
  • Moon Tours reserves the right to:

    • Withdraw a tour or any part of it.
    • Modify the itinerary or tour inclusions as needed.
    • Pass on any additional costs incurred due to force majeure events or delays.
  • If itinerary changes result in significant cost variations, Moon Tours reserves the right to adjust tour prices accordingly.

Special Requests

  • Specific requests must be communicated at the time of booking.
  • While Moon Tours will make every effort to accommodate requests, they cannot be guaranteed.
  • Some special requests may require upfront payments.

Transportation

  • Transportation will be provided as specified in the itinerary.
  • Moon Tours is not liable for transportation delays, missed connections, or cancellations by airlines, rail services, or other third-party providers.

Baggage

  • Baggage handling is only as specified in the tour package or quotation.
  • Some domestic and internal flights may have weight restrictions, which will be provided in pre-tour documentation.
  • Moon Tours assumes no liability for lost or damaged baggage. Baggage insurance is strongly advised.
  • Travelers must check with their international carrier for baggage restrictions on international flights.

Taxes & Gratuities

  • Hotel taxes as imposed by city and state governments are included in the tour price.
  • Airport taxes are included only where specified in the itinerary.
  • Gratuities for guides, drivers, porters, camp staff, ship crew, and tour managers are not included and remain at the discretion of the traveler.

Prices & Arrangements

  • The tour price includes planning, handling, and operational charges and is quoted based on the current exchange rates and tariffs.
  • Entrance fees for scheduled sightseeing tours are included in the tour price.
  • Prices may be adjusted due to significant changes in foreign currency exchange rates, tariffs, taxes, or other factors beyond Moon Tours’ control.

Accommodation

  • All accommodation, room type(s), and specifications are as shown in the itinerary.

Meals

  • Meals are as shown in the itinerary and are non-refundable.

Transfers

  • Transfers are as shown in the itinerary and are non-refundable.

Itinerary Changes

  • Accommodation, activities, and arranged sightseeing are subject to change at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond Moon Tours’ control.
  • Every effort will be made to operate tours as planned, but alterations may occur after the final itinerary has been issued.
  • Moon Tours reserves the right to withdraw a tour or any part of it, make necessary alterations to the itinerary, or adjust inclusions as required.
  • Any additional expenses incurred due to delays or changes caused by force majeure events will be passed on to tour participants.
  • In case of any appreciable variation in the tour price due to these circumstances, Moon Tours reserves the right to adjust tour costs accordingly.

Special Requests

  • Specific requests should be advised at the time of booking.
  • While every effort will be made to accommodate special requests, they cannot be guaranteed.
  • Certain special requests may require upfront payments.

Transportation

  • Transportation will be as specified in the itinerary.
  • Moon Tours is not liable for transportation delays, missed connections, or cancellations by airlines, rail services, or other third-party providers.

Baggage

  • Baggage handling is only as specified in the tour package or quotation.
  • Some domestic and internal flights may have weight restrictions, which will be provided in pre-tour documentation.
  • Moon Tours assumes no liability for lost or damaged baggage. Baggage insurance is strongly advised.
  • Travelers must check with their international carrier for baggage restrictions on international flights.

Taxes & Gratuities

  • Hotel taxes as imposed by city and state governments are included in the tour price.
  • Airport taxes are included only where specified in the itinerary.
  • Gratuities for guides, drivers, porters, camp staff, ship crew, and tour managers are not included and remain at the discretion of the traveler.

Prices & Arrangements

  • The tour price includes planning, handling, and operational charges and is quoted based on the current exchange rates and tariffs.
  • Entrance fees for scheduled sightseeing tours are included in the tour price.
  • Prices may be adjusted due to significant changes in foreign currency exchange rates, tariffs, taxes, or other factors beyond Moon Tours’ control.

15. Arbitration Agreement

Any disputes arising under these terms will be subject to binding arbitration in the applicable legal forum.

By booking with Moon Tours, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms & Conditions.

For any inquiries, please contact info@moontours.com.au