The Trip is organised and operated by Turtle School and will take place from 26 February to 3 March, departing from and returning to Byron Bay, New South Wales.

• Road transport between Byron Bay and Gladstone (return)
• Return catamaran transfers between Gladstone and Heron Island
• Use of a vessel for guided snorkelling off the reef
• Full snorkelling equipment (mask, fins, snorkel, and optional 5mm full wetsuit)
• Guidance by professional marine scientists
• Accommodation in Gladstone, Heron Island, and Mon Repos
• Full board (all meals) while on Heron Island
• Internet access on Heron Island
• Guided Mon Repos Turtle Encounter

The following items and services are not included in the Trip package:

• Flights or long-distance transport to and from Byron Bay
• Personal travel insurance (strongly recommended)
• Meals and beverages outside the Heron Island Research Station (Gladstone and Mon Repos stays)
• Personal expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, or optional activities not listed in the itinerary
• Scuba diving equipment hire (snorkelling gear is included; scuba gear can be hired separately)
• Medical expenses, medications, or other personal healthcare costs

• Total trip cost: AUD 2,500 per person
• Non-refundable deposit: AUD 500, payable at the time of booking confirmation
• Remaining balance: AUD 2,000, due no later than seven (7) weeks prior to departure (by 8 January 2025)
• Bookings are confirmed only upon receipt of the deposit and participant form
• Payments may be made via bank transfer – an invoice for each instalment will be sent with all due information at the moment of booking confirmation

Failure to pay the balance by the due date may result in cancellation of the booking without refund of the deposit.

Cancellations by the Participant:

• Cancellations will result in full forfeiture of the total trip cost, unless the vacated place is successfully filled by another participant. In that instance, a refund of any payments made, less the non-refundable deposit, will be issued.
• No refunds will be issued for unused services once the Trip has commenced.

Cancellations by the Organiser:

Turtle School reserves the right to cancel or postpone the Trip due to adverse weather or other unforeseen circumstances beyond its reasonable control. Communication of such will be given with as much notice as possible.

In the event that the Trip is rescheduled, participants will be offered the opportunity to transfer to the new dates. If a participant is unable or unwilling to attend the rescheduled Trip, a refund will only be issued if the vacated place can be filled by another participant.

If the Trip is fully cancelled by Turtle School (and not rescheduled), participants will receive a full refund of any payments made, less the non-refundable deposit.

Turtle School accepts no liability for additional expenses incurred by participants, including flights, accommodation, or other arrangements made outside the program.

Participants are strongly advised to obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical expenses, evacuation, and personal property.

Participants undertaking scuba diving must hold a valid diving certification and insurance covering dive-related activities.

Participants must ensure they are in suitable physical and mental health to undertake the activities outlined. Any existing medical conditions or dietary requirements must be disclosed prior to departure.

• Follow all safety instructions issued by Turtle School staff, guides, or vessel operators.
• Conduct themselves respectfully toward staff, fellow participants, and wildlife.
• Comply with all local regulations, environmental guidelines, and site-specific instructions.

Turtle School reserves the right to remove any participant whose behaviour is unsafe, unlawful, or disruptive. No refund will be provided in such circumstances.

Participation in the Trip involves activities conducted in natural marine environments, which carry inherent risks. By booking, the Participant acknowledges and accepts these risks, including but not limited to those associated with snorkelling, boating, and outdoor exposure.

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Turtle School, its employees, agents, and contractors shall not be held liable for any injury, illness, loss, damage, or expense sustained during or as a result of participation, except where liability cannot be excluded under Australian law.

Participants agree to indemnify Turtle School against all claims, damages, or losses arising from their participation, except where such loss results from Turtle School’s proven negligence.

The Trip is subject to a minimum number of participants. If minimum numbers are not met, Turtle School reserves the right to cancel or reschedule the Trip, providing a refund of any payments made, less the non-refundable deposit.

Turtle School also reserves the right to make reasonable adjustments to the itinerary, accommodation, or transport arrangements due to weather, safety, or operational considerations.

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of the State of New South Wales, Australia, and any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of that State.

Submission of a booking form and payment of the deposit constitutes full acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.