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Vagabond Cruises - Terms & Conditions
All bookings are subject to the terms and conditions outlined below. Any payment towards a booking indicates that you have read, understood and agreed to these terms and conditions.
Cancellation policy
All payments are non-refundable under most circumstances.
If a cruise is cancelled due to Government restrictions, a full credit will be provided, valid for 12 months.
For cancellations due to positive COVID cases, we will be offering 100% credit per affected individual, valid for up to 12 months. This does not extend to others in a group booking, only the affected individual(s). For private charters, this does not apply to the entire event, only per affected individual(s). Cancellations must be submitted in writing to info@vagabond.com.au at least 8 hours prior to your cruise start time and must include a positive PCR test result. No refunds will be provided in case of COVID-19 cancellations.
If a cruise is cancelled by Vagabond Cruises for operational reasons (or a reason not imposed by a Government institution or authority), you will be provided with the option to either rebook, receive a full credit or a refund. All measures will be taken to provide as much notice as possible.
Vagabond Cruises is not liable for associated costs impacted by a cancellation (e.g. travel costs, hotel bookings, clothing or costumes purchased for a specific event etc).
The above cancellation policy applies to all bookings made directly with Vagabond Cruises either through our website (www.vagabond.com.au) or by phone. Bookings made through agents or partners maybe subject to the terms and conditions here and to those of the vendor.
Private Charter
The following terms & conditions apply to all private hire functions
Pricing:
Prices of our goods & services are in Australian Dollars (AUD) and include GST as of 1st Jan 2020. Therefore, all transactions and payments for any of our goods & services are to be performed in AUD despite the rate of the foreign exchange currency at the time.
Inspections:
Vessel inspections are currently unavailable until further notice
NSW wharf fees:
A NSW Government duty tax will be paid by the hirer for each pick up and drop off at $55.00 per wharf slot. This fee applies to most wharves in the city and is subject to change without prior notice.
Child fees:
Children under the age of 5 years are free of charge. Children between the ages of 5-14 years of age are charged at half price. Minimum numbers must be met as per your quoted package before children are permitted at half price.
Additional passengers and contractor charges:
In case you want your photographer, MC, band members or any other additional persons (apart from your guests) to remain on board during your function, they will be charged at half price. A meal will be provided for them also. The number of additional patrons must be in proportion to your party size and a maximum of 5 will be permitted at 1/2 price at any time. Additional persons will be charged at the full rate.
Vessel hire extensions:
Additional vessel hire (over & beyond the booked duration) is charged at $550 per hour aboard the MV Princess and MV Star and at $800 per hour for the MV Spirit plus the consumption of drinks and any other costs impacted by the extension.
Tentative bookings:
Tentative bookings are free-of-charge and obligation and are held for a maximum of 7 days only
Deposit & Final Payment
Vagabond Princess & Vagabond Star
To secure a booking, a deposit of $1000 (Jan–Oct), $3000 (Nov-Dec) or 10% of the total of your charter (whichever is the greater) is required.
Vagabond Spirit
To secure a booking, a deposit of $2000 (Jan–Oct), $5000 (Nov-Dec) or 10% of the total of your charter (whichever is the greater) is required.
Upon payment of a deposit, you will be provided with a letter of confirmation, verifying the specifics of your booking. Final payment & passenger numbers are due no less than 7 days prior to your cruise date.
We accept payment by Visa, Mastercard, Amex, direct transfer or cheque. Visa and Mastercard payments attract a 1% surcharge. Amex payments attract a 3% surcharge. Guests added within the last 7 days, will need paid for in full at the time that they are added. Up to 5 additional guests can be accommodated for on the day of your event. Any additional guests must be paid for in full on board at the beginning of your cruise using cash or EFTPOS.
Amendments
Changes to your booking can be made with your event coordinator no later than 7 days prior to your cruise. Some changes may incur additional costs.
Cancellations
Cancellations must be made in writing via email to info@vagabond.com.au. All payments are non-refundable under most circumstances.
For events cancelled by the customer, all payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.
If a cruise is cancelled due to Government restrictions, a full credit will be provided, valid for 12 months.
For individual cancellations due to being COVID-positive, we will be offering 100% credit per affected person valid for up to 12 months. This does not apply to the entire event nor does it extend to others in your household or close contacts. Cancellations must be submitted in writing to info@vagabond.com.au at least 8 hours prior to your cruise start time and must include a positive PCR test result. No refunds will be provided in case of COVID-19 cancellations.
If a cruise is cancelled by Vagabond Cruises for operational reasons (or a reason not imposed by a Government institution or authority), you will be provided with the option of a full credit or a refund. All measures will be taken to provide as much notice as possible.
Vagabond Cruises is not liable for associated costs impacted by a cancellation (e.g. travel costs, hotel bookings, clothing or costumes purchased for a specific event etc).
The above cancellation policy applies to all bookings made directly with Vagabond Cruises either through our website (www.vagabond.com.au) or by phone. Bookings made through agents or partners are subject to the terms and conditions of the vendor.
Damages:
The hirer is responsible for retuning the vessel in the same condition that it was hired out to them. All breakages & damages must be paid for. You will be advised of any damages prior to disembarking and provided with a quote for relevant repairs within 14 days after your cruise. Damages may also be charged in case of heavy soiling or staining of surfaces on the vessel where commercial cleaning is required.
Prior access:
Prior access to your vessel for decorating and setting up needs to be coordinated with your dedicated event coordinator. A maximum of 5 guests are permitted to board the vessel up to 2 hours prior to your charter and remain on board to set up if you would like to add to the standard décor that we provide.
Strictly no confetti, glitter, small feathers or any other small items that can easily end up in the vessel's plumbing are permitted on board. Lights, balloons, streamers, banners and other party decorations are welcome, however will first require clearance with your event coordinator. You may be asked to provide details such as size, material, etc of items in order to ensure that items are safe to have on board. Strictly no stapling, nailing, screwing or otherwise attaching things to surfaces aboard the vessel that might cause damage.
Furniture
We offer a variety of layouts, suitable for a wide range of events and we are able to pack away some of the excess furniture away for your function when it's not required. If you would like furniture removed from the vessel additional fees may apply. To remove all furniture from the vessel, an additional fee of $350 will be charged.
Delays
Due to the increase of traffic during the months of November-December and Special events delays may be experienced during pick up & drop off times.
Third party events:
Vagabond Cruises accepts no liability for cancelled or otherwise amended third party events which may impact any of our cruises. This includes but is not limited to third party events such as Vivid Sydney, Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, NYE fireworks, Australia Day harbour events such as the annual Ferrython and others. Vagabond Cruises is not liable in case of poor visibility of any such events under any circumstances. In case of any such changes or cancellations, Vagabond Cruises reserves the right to amend, cancel or substitute any cruising service(s) and/or inclusion(s) without notice and will aim to do so in a fair and just manner.
Public Holiday Surcharge
A 30% surcharge applies for Public Holidays. You will be advised of the amount in your quotation.
Nov – Dec Period
In order to better accommodate the high demand of our customers in the peak period of November and December, a minimum booking of 80 guests is required on Friday and Saturday evenings onboard the Vagabond Princess and Vagabond Star. Onboard the Vagabond Spirit, a minimum of 150 guests is required for the hire of the entire vessel or a minimum of 100 guests for a split-deck charter (hire of one level) on a Fri or Sat night in Nov-Dec. The rates for Fri-Sat nights are subject to increase by $10pp during the peak Nov-Dec period.
Security Guards
We provide security for all School Formal, Uni Party Cruise and Bucks Party Cruises as part of our standard packages at no extra cost. If you are booking outside of these packages and we consider the cruise to be of mid to high risk, such as 18 birthdays or cruises where adult (25 +) supervision is limited, then we reserve the right to ask you to employ security. The rate to cover your own security is $275 per guard.
Bond
A $1,000 bond applies to school formals, uni cruises, bucks cruises, bare boat hire and any bookings considered by Vagabond Cruises to be high risk. The bond is charged on top of the quoted amount and will be refunded in full on the first Monday after your event so long as no damage is caused to the vessel or Vagabond Cruises’ property.
Damage includes physical damage to the exterior or interior of the vessel or its contents, missing furniture/items thrown overboard, vandalism, staining or heavy soiling of carpets, upholstery or any other surface requiring professional cleaning for it’s removal. In the event that damage is caused, Vagabond Cruises reserves the right to use the bond towards repairs. A written quote will be provided for the work to be undertaken and any remaining funds will be refunded. Should repairs exceed $1000 the hirer is liable for any additional cost.
Injury
To the extent permitted by law, the Company, its related entities, employees and agents shall not be liable for any claims, losses, damages, injuries, costs and expenses suffered, sustained or incurred (including but not limited to indirect or consequential) as a result of, or arising out of, or in any way connected with the cruise.
The Passenger releases the Company for any claim whatsoever and howsoever incurred including but not limited to a claim for death bodily injury damage or loss of property during embarkation and/or disembarkation to or from the vessel and/or at all times whilst on board the vessel itself, unless caused by willfull misconduct or reckless disregard of the Company. Whilst Vagabond Cruises ensures a safe environment for all patrons travelling on board our vessels, we accept no liability for any injury or claim caused by the passengers own negligence including, but not limited to, tripping, falling or any other accident that could be avoided by taking due care and caution of one’s surroundings. Equally, should any patrons choose to disregard on board safety rules and regulations or advice from our crew on board, then Vagabond Cruises shall be free from liability for any claim or injury incurred as a result. Due to the sometimes unpredictable movements of the vessel(s), sensible/ flat footwear is highly recommended whilst on board.
Disclaimer:
Vagabond Cruises reserves the right to a) change any price b) amend or cancel any service, route or other information c) substitute or change any vessel without notice and without incurring liability if required
Shared Cruises
The following terms & conditions apply to all shared cruises including Weekly Cruises and Annual Events or any other ticketed event organised and promoted by Vagabond Cruises and our partners.
Pricing:
Prices of our goods & services are in Australian Dollars (AUD) and include GST as of 1st July 2016. Therefore, all transactions and payments for any of our goods & services are to be performed in AUD despite the rate of the foreign exchange at the time.
Prices are subject to change without notice and liability
Tentative booking:
Tentative bookings are free-of-charge and obligation and are held for a maximum of 7 days only
Confirmed booking:
A deposit of $20 per person is required within 7 days to confirm a booking. Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. A cancellation or decrease in numbers after paying a deposit will incur a loss of $20 per person.
Finalised booking:
Confirmation of final number of guests and full payment is required 7 days prior to cruise date in order to finalise your booking. All payments are non-refundable.
Payment fees:
A 1% (3% for American Express) fee applies to all credit card payments
Booking date changes:
Date changes within 7 days of travel throughout the entire year are not permitted. No date changes permitted for bookings made in Nov-Dec, even outside of 7 days.
Booking name changes:
Name changes are permitted free of charge at any time
Cancellations & no-shows:
Cancellations must be made in writing via email to info@vagabond.com.au.
Tentative bookings can be cancelled within 7 days of making the booking at no charge.
All payments are non-refundable under most circumstances.
If a cruise is cancelled due to Government restrictions, a full credit will be provided, valid for 12 months.
For cancellations due to positive COVID cases, we will be offering 100% credit per affected person, valid for up to 12 months. This does not extend to others in your household or close contacts. Cancellations must be submitted in writing to info@vagabond.com.au at least 8 hours prior to your cruise start time and must include a positive PCR test result.
If a cruise is cancelled by Vagabond Cruises for operational reasons (or a reason not imposed by a Government institution or authority), you will be provided with either the option to rebook, a full credit or a refund. All measures will be taken to provide as much notice as possible.
Vagabond Cruises is not liable for associated costs impacted by a cancellation (e.g. travel costs, hotel bookings, clothing or costumes purchased for a specific event etc).
The above cancellation policy applies to all bookings made directly with Vagabond Cruises either through our website (www.vagabond.com.au) or by phone. Bookings made through agents or partners are subject to the terms and conditions of the vendor.
No refunds or credit provided for no-shows or late arrivals. It remains the responsibility of the client to ensure they are at the designated wharf at the correct boarding time.
Wet weather:
Cruises will go out in wet weather. All dining areas are covered. No refunds / transfers for cancellations due to poor weather unless Vagabond Cruises is forced to cancel for safety reasons.
Public holidays & special events:
A surcharge or altered service may apply on public holidays and special events (e.g. Mother's Day, Easter Sunday etc). For information regarding such cruises, please refer to 'Annual Events tab' on our website. Annual Event cruises must be paid in full at time of booking and are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable under any circumstances. Transfer of tickets to another person for the same date and cruise are permitted free of charge.
Vessel:
Shared cruises are hosted aboard any of Vagabond Cruises' three vessels subject to availability. The vessel which you are a booked on is subject to change without prior notice. In case of a technical breakdown or for any other operational reason, Vagabond Cruises reserves the right to use a third-party operator's vessel without prior notice. Vagabond Cruises will do it's best to provide all advertised inclusions and services as reasonably possible.
Accessibility:
Whilst we aim to make our vessels accessible to all, there are unfortunately structural obstacles impeding wheelchair access and may also limit access to our vessels for some individuals requiring walking aids or with otherwise limited mobility.
For wheelchairs and walking aids, access may be possible where the item can be collapsed and carried on to the boat and the user can walk or be assisted across the gangway either from our crew or family/friends. It is important to note that depending on the wharf being used and the tide, the steepness of the gangway can vary.
Some areas of the vessel including toilets and outdoor decks may only be accessible via stairs and/or narrow passageways or with low headroom, limiting access for some passengers.
If you or someone in your group has limited mobility or uses a walking aid/wheelchair, please contact our office on 02 9660 0388 or info@vagabond.com.au to discuss access prior to booking.
Family and concession tickets:
Family tickets are valid for 2 adults & 2 children aged 5 - 14 years. Children are between the ages of 5-14 years. Infants are permitted on board lunch & dinner cruises but must be noted when booking. Concession includes full-time students and Australian seniors/pensioners. Concession does not cover CenterLink issued tickets
Wharf changes:
Exact wharf details and departure times may be subject to change. Patrons shall be notified of changes by phone or email. It remains the patron's responsibility to be at the correct location on time for boarding.
Transport to or from pick-up location:
Vagabond Cruises will not cover customer's own transport costs to and from the pick up / drop off wharf
Entertainment:
Vagabond Cruises prides itself on offering quality entertainment at a reasonable and fair price-point, in addition to our cruising and hospitality services and accepts no liability in case entertainment does not meet an individual's or group's personal taste / expectations. Vagabond Cruises accepts no responsibility in the event that patrons are offended by costumes or attire worn by our entertainers or by content of music played on board. Although we do not consider our music volumes to be loud by night club standards, our night cruises do feature music for dancing and entertainment purposes. Vagabond Cruises accepts no responsibility if music volumes are received by a patron(s) to be unacceptable.
Delays:
Vagabond Cruises prides itself on offering a timely service. In case of unexpected delays due to mechanical, operational reasons or otherwise unforeseen circumstances, Vagabond Cruises holds no liability
Damages:
All breakages & damages must be paid for
Alcohol service and RSA:
All Vagabond Cruises vessels are fully licensed and as such, BYO is strictly not permitted aboard any of our vessels. Vagabond Cruises staff and management reserve the right to restrict or refuse service of alcohol to any patron(s) in the interests of Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) and of the safety and wellbeing of the individual(s) involved, other patrons on board, our staff and crew and the general public. Vagabond Cruises staff and management reserve the right to disembark patron(s) at the nearest wharf as soon as is safely possible if patron(s) appears to be intoxicated and/or behaving in a disorderly or otherwise disruptive manner. We do not serve any shots, slammers or doubles. Bar service will cease 10 minutes prior to disembarking. Bar packages must be pre-booked. Every member of a booking must be on the same bar package - exceptions may be made for those that are pregnant or can supply valid medical evidence. Bar menu items are subject to change without notices.
Minimum numbers:
Minimum numbers apply to our shared cruises and we reserve the right to cancel or amend our services. Where this happens you will be offered the opportunity to reschedule or receive a refund. We shall not be liable for additional travel or accommodation expenses.
Optional upgrades:
Optional upgrades including bar packages, seafood option or any other upgrades that are not otherwise included in a cruise package must be booked in advance and are subject to availability.
Bar packages are optional and only recommended if suitable for your entire group or groups attending together. Drinks can otherwise be purchased at the bar using cash or card. Alternatively, you may open up a tab, we recommend contacting our office on 0296600388 ahead of time to make such arrangements.
All members of a group booking or of groups attending a cruise together must be on the same bar package. Exceptions will only be made for patrons under 18 years of age or for medical reasons (e.g. pregnancy). These patrons will be required to purchase the Cadet Package (soft drinks and juices).
Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) is practiced at all times and also applies to anyone who has purchased a bar package. Vagabond Cruises' crew reserve the right to restrict/refuse service to anyone in the interests of RSA.
Promotions:
Promotions such as 'Cruise for free on your birthday' or any other similar promotions are dependent on minimum numbers and any other conditions stipulated within the terms of the offer. A special offer can not be used in conjunction with any other discounts, coupons or offers. Special offers are not applicable during Nov & Dec.
Shared tables:
Whilst all measures are taken to try and ensure the comfort of our passengers, please note that your table may be shared with another group if needed to facilitate seating of all booked guests aboard a cruise.
Authorised vendors:
Cruises may be booked via your hotel concierge, authorised partners, agents or directly through Vagabond Cruises either via our website (www.vagabond.com.au) or telephone on 02 9660 0388. When booking through a third-party vendor, you do so in agreement with their terms and conditions and in conjunction with the terms and conditions listed here accordingly. All claims, booking changes and cancellations must be taken up directly with your vendor.
Disclaimer:
Whilst all measures will be taken to avoid any unnecessary last-minute changes, Vagabond Cruises reserves the right to a) change any price b) amend or cancel any service, cruise route or other information c) substitute or change food and bar menu items d) Substitute any vessel without notice and without incurring liability if required
Onboard photography:
Passengers may be filmed/photographed during the cruise. Vagabond Cruises reserves the right to use or reproduce such film or material for promotional purposes without notification, compensation or payment.
Viewing major harbour events:
Vagabond Cruises accepts no liability for delays, cancellations or other amendments to major harbour events. This includes but is not limited to Vivid Sydney, Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, NYE fireworks, Australia Day Ferrython, Regatta and other similar events.
Whilst our crew will do their best to obtain the best possible position and provide a clear view of such events, Vagabond Cruises does not guarantee a full and unobstructed view at all times. We do not guarantee an exact position and our proximity from the event may be impacted by exclusion zones, other vessels, weather conditions and more. The view may become obscured by harbour landmarks or other vessels either momentarily or for a prolonged period of time. Vagabond Cruises does not guarantee a clear view from all seats. Passengers may need to reposition themselves for better viewing.
Injury:
To the extent permitted by law, the Company, its related entities, employees and agents shall not be liable for any claims, losses, damages, injuries, costs and expenses suffered, sustained or incurred (including but not limited to indirect or consequential) as a result of, or arising out of, or in any way connected with the cruise.
The Passenger releases the Company for any claim whatsoever and howsoever incurred including but not limited to a claim for death bodily injury damage or loss of property during embarkation and/or disembarkation to or from the vessel and/or at all times whilst on board the vessel itself, unless caused by willful misconduct or reckless disregard of the Company. Whilst Vagabond Cruises ensures a safe environment for all patrons travelling on board our vessels, we accept no liability for any injury or claim caused by the passengers own negligence including, but not limited to, tripping, falling or any other accident that could be avoided by taking due care and caution of one’s surroundings. Equally, should any patrons choose to disregard on board safety rules and regulations or advice from our crew on board, then Vagabond Cruises shall be free from liability for any claim or injury incurred as a result. Due to the sometimes unpredictable movements of the vessel(s), sensible/ flat footwear is highly recommended whilst on board.
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Terms and conditions subject to change without notice
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