TERMS AND CONDITIONS

 

WORLD SEA EXPLORERS AS

 

These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern the relationship between you (“Customer”) and World Sea Explorers AS (“WSE”, “we”, “our”, “us”), a Norwegian limited company registered under organization number 922 303 738. By booking or participating in any cruise, tour, charter, activity, or related service (“Tour”) operated by WSE, you agree to be legally bound by these Terms.

 

By making a booking, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and accepted these Terms in full. If you are booking on behalf of others, you represent that you are authorized to accept these Terms on their behalf and that all participants agree to comply with them.

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1. BOOKINGS AND RESERVATIONS
A “Booking” is defined as the act of completing a written registration (e.g. filling out an online booking form) to request a reservation for a selected service. By making a booking, you agree to provide complete and accurate information and are responsible for reviewing all booking details for accuracy.

 

You must be at least 18 years of age to make a Booking. By submitting a Booking, you are entering into a binding agreement with World Sea Explorers AS (WSE), subject to these Terms and Conditions.

 

Your reservation is not confirmed until full or partial payment has been received as required and WSE (or an authorized Sales Agent) has issued a written confirmation. WSE reserves the right to decline or cancel any Booking at its sole discretion if necessary, including in the case of pricing, availability, or operational issues.

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2. PAYMENT
All services must be paid in full before the start of the Tour. Payment terms vary depending on the type of booking as follows:

 

DAY TOURS

For online or point-of-sale bookings, full payment is required at the time of booking. Accepted payment methods include debit card, credit card, or compatible mobile payment apps.

 

MULTI-DAY TOURS, CUSTOM TOURS, OR BOOKINGS WITH ADVANCE AGREEMENTS

Bookings made more than 90 days before departure:

• Reserve your private charter online with a 5% initial deposit.

• An additional 25% deposit is due within 14 days to confirm your booking.

• Together, these payments form a non-refundable 30% deposit required to secure your reservation.

• The remaining 70% must be paid no later than 90 days before departure.

• If booked more than 6 months in advance, the remaining balance may be split into flexible installments upon request.

Bookings made within 90 days of departure:

• Full payment is required at the time of booking, or a 30% non-refundable deposit may be accepted to confirm the reservation.

• The remaining 70% must be paid within 7 days after the deposit is received.

• No boarding or participation is allowed unless full payment has been received before departure.

 

If any payment is not received by the stated deadlines, WSE reserves the right to cancel the reservation without notice. Reinstatement will be subject to availability and may incur additional costs.

 

Accepted Payment Methods:

• International Customers: Payment will be processed through a secure payment processor via FareHarbor and Flywire.

• Norwegian Companies: Electronic invoice (EHF).

• Individuals Residing in Norway: Invoice for direct bank transfer or Vipps.

 

TOUR LEADERS OR TRANSLATORS

WSE does not provide free or discounted spots for tour leaders or translators. All participants, including tour leaders and translators, must be included in the total participant count and are subject to the tour’s maximum capacity.

 

INFANTS AND CHILDREN

Infants aged 12 months or younger may join free of charge but must be included in the booking and approved in advance. All other participants, including children over 1 year old, are subject to the standard per-person rate.

 

3. CANCELLATION OR CHANGES BY THE CUSTOMER OR SALES AGENT

All cancellations or change requests must be made in writing via email to info@worldseaexplorers.com. The effective date of any cancellation or change is the date and time the email is received by WSE, relative to the tour’s scheduled departure. Rescheduling is subject to availability and permitted once per booking, with the new date scheduled within 12 months of the original departure. Additional changes or multiple reschedules beyond the first free change will incur applicable administrative or percentage-based fees.

 

Tour Types: Day tours may be offered on a public, semi-private, or private basis. All multi-day and custom tours are operated as private charters. Your booking confirmation will indicate the applicable format and associated terms.

 

HALF-DAY AND FULL-DAY TOURS (Public or Semi-Private)

 

For individuals and groups of 1-5 participants:

• More than 48 hours before departure

  • Cancellation: 100% refund

  • Rescheduling: Free of charge

• 48 hours or fewer before departure

  • Cancellation: No refund

  • Rescheduling: NOK 1,000 administrative fee

 

For groups of 6 or more participants:

• More than 7 days before departure

  • Cancellation: 100% refund

  • Rescheduling: One free reschedule

• 7 days or fewer before departure

  • Cancellation: 50% refund

  • Rescheduling: 10% of the total booking value

• Less than 48 hours before departure

  • Cancellation: No refund

  • Rescheduling: 10% of the total booking value

 

Partial Reductions for group bookings of 6 or more participants:

• If a group reduces in size by less than 30% of the originally booked number:

  • 3–7 days before departure: 20% of the per-person tour price (including add-ons)

  • 2 days or fewer before departure: 100% of the per-person tour price

• If the reduction equals or exceeds 30% of the group, it is treated as a full cancellation, and the standard cancellation policy applies to the entire group.

 

PRIVATE CHARTERS OF HALF-DAY AND FULL-DAY TOURS

• More than 90 days before departure:

  • Cancellation: 70% refund of total charter price

  • Rescheduling: One free reschedule

• 90–61 days before departure:

  • Cancellation: No refund

  • Rescheduling: 5% of total charter price

• 60 days or fewer before departure:

  • Cancellation: No refund

  • Rescheduling: 15% of total charter price

 

PRIVATE MULTI-DAY TOURS AND CUSTOM TOURS

• More than 90 days before departure

  • Cancellation: Deposit is non-refundable, no further payment required

  • Rescheduling: One free reschedule (subject to availability)

• 90–61 days before departure

  • Cancellation: No refund of any payments made

  • Rescheduling: 5% fee of the total charter price

• 60 days or fewer before departure

  • Cancellation: No refund of any payments made

  • Rescheduling: 15% fee of the total charter price

 

NO SHOWS AND LATE ARRIVALS

No-shows or late arrivals—defined as arriving after the scheduled departure time—are not eligible for refunds or rescheduling, regardless of the reason (including illness, emergencies, or travel delays). All guests must arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure.

 

ADD-ONS AND OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

All optional add-ons (such as hot tub access, fishing, food and drink, thermal suit rental, etc.) are non-refundable once booked, regardless of whether the guest uses or participates in them during the tour.

 

If the entire tour booking is cancelled within the eligible refund window (as outlined in Section 3), any refund issued will apply to the total paid amount, including add-ons. Add-ons are not refunded separately and cannot be removed or cancelled independently once booked.

 

No refunds or partial reimbursements will be issued for unused, skipped, or declined services or activities during the tour.

 

THIRD PARTY SUPPLIERS

Some parts of your Tour may be provided by independent third-party suppliers (such as dog sledding, kayaking, cultural visits, photography services, etc.). These third parties operate under their own terms and conditions, including their own cancellation, refund, and liability policies.

 

WSE acts only as a facilitator for these services and does not assume responsibility or liability for the actions, omissions, or performance of any third-party suppliers.

 

Any additional fees or charges related to third-party services will appear separately on your invoice and are subject to the individual supplier’s policies.

 

Please review the terms of these third-party providers carefully, as they may differ from WSE’s policies.

 

ADDITIONAL CHARGES

Rescheduling, cancellation, or damage fees, and any outstanding payments, will be billed to the original booking contact person, regardless of who paid.

 

REFUNDS

Upon receipt of your cancellation request via email, WSE will promptly confirm the receipt and assess your eligibility for a refund based on the applicable cancellation terms.

 

If a refund is due, WSE may request your bank or payment details to process the refund. Refunds are usually completed within 3 to 8 business days, depending on your bank or payment provider.

 

Please note that refund amounts may be impacted by currency exchange rate fluctuations, and WSE cannot be held responsible for any losses or fees arising from currency conversions or international payment processing.

 

Refunds are processed based on the original payment method used, where possible. WSE reserves the right to withhold refunds if fraudulent activity or breach of terms is suspected.​

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4. CANCELLATIONS OR CHANGES BY WSE

Certain tours require a minimum number of participants to operate. WSE reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to cancel or reschedule any tour if minimum participant requirements are not met, or due to weather conditions, operational limitations, or other unforeseen circumstances. Customers will be promptly notified of such cancellations or changes.

 

If rescheduling is not possible or if WSE cannot offer an alternative experience acceptable to the Customer, any prepaid amounts will be refunded in full. You agree that this refund constitutes full and final settlement, and you will have no further claim for compensation, including for loss, inconvenience, consequential damages, missed connections, or other costs resulting from the cancellation.

 

FORCE MAJEURE

“Force Majeure” means any circumstance beyond the reasonable control of WSE, including but not limited to severe weather, natural disasters, government actions or regulations, pandemics, strikes, port closures, mechanical breakdowns, accidents, or other emergencies not caused by WSE’s negligence.

 

Given the remote and weather-sensitive nature of our destinations, customers acknowledge that Force Majeure events may affect tour operations.

• If Force Majeure occurs before the tour commences, WSE may provide a refund or credit at its discretion. Any offered credit will have a defined validity period.

• If Force Majeure occurs during the tour, no refund or credit will be provided, as costs will have already been incurred.

• No further claims for damages or losses will be accepted in relation to Force Majeure cancellations or changes.

 

CAPTAIN’S AUTHORITY

The Captain has sole and absolute authority to adjust, delay, modify, or cancel any tour at any time if deemed necessary for safety, security, or operational reasons. This authority is final and binding for the protection of all passengers and crew. WSE does not guarantee weather suitability for any tour.

 

CHANGES TO TOUR SCHEDULE OR SERVICES

WSE may, at its sole discretion and without prior notice:

• Alter the departure or return times

• Change meeting or drop-off locations

• Modify, replace, or omit any scheduled stops or activites before or during the tour

 

Such changes may be necessary due to operational needs, weather, safety, or availability. No refunds or compensation will be provided for such changes unless a third-party provider directly responsible for a cancelled activity agrees to compensation.

 

WSE will not be liable for any loss of time, enjoyment, connecting travel, or other expenses arising from these changes.

 

5. CONDITIONS OF PARTICIPATION AND GUEST RESPONSIBILITIES
Participation in our tours requires a reasonable level of physical fitness and mobility. By booking, you confirm that you are in adequate health and can safely participate in all included activities without assistance. All guests must be able to climb stairs, move around the vessel (approximately 25 meters unaided), and enter or exit small boats if required.

 

Some tours may include optional or scheduled land excursions that involve hiking, walking on uneven surfaces, or other physically demanding activities. If you have any medical conditions, mobility limitations, or special needs that may impact your participation, you must notify WSE in writing at the time of booking or as soon as possible. WSE reserves the right to assess whether participation is safe and feasible and may decline participation if there are reasonable safety concerns.

 

Participation while under the influence of illegal substances, excessive alcohol, impairing drugs, or psychiatric medications that may compromise safety is strictly prohibited. Guests must follow all instructions from WSE personnel, including the Captain, crew, guides, and activity leaders. Failure to comply with safety directions, behave respectfully, or adhere to rules may result in denied participation, denied boarding, or immediate removal from the tour without refund or further liability. WSE reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to make such determinations in the interest of guest and crew safety.

 

Our tours take place in Arctic and/or remote conditions that can be cold, hot, wet, windy, snowy, icy, or dark. Guests must dress appropriately for the weather and bring any personal items necessary for their safety and comfort. In winter, surfaces on the vessel — including outdoor decks — may become icy and slippery, and caution is required when moving around. At the end of the tour, guests must leave the vessel within 10 minutes of docking and take all personal belongings with them. WSE is not responsible for lost or forgotten items and does not provide mailing or return services. Guests who cause damage to the vessel or soil it through negligence or misconduct may be charged a cleaning or repair fee.

 

By booking a tour, you acknowledge and accept these participation conditions and guest responsibilities.

 

6. DISCLAIMER

WSE aims to deliver memorable and high-quality experiences. While our tours often include the chance to see natural wonders such as the Northern Lights, whales, orcas, or to catch specific fish species, these are natural phenomena and cannot be guaranteed. Sightings and catches are subject to weather, wildlife behavior, seasonal conditions, and other environmental factors beyond our control. No refunds, discounts, or compensation will be issued if these occurrences do not happen during your tour.

 

7. INSURANCE

Guests are solely responsible for obtaining adequate travel, health, and cancellation insurance for themselves and all persons in their booking. We strongly recommend that your insurance covers trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, lost belongings, and weather-related disruptions.

 

WSE is not responsible for any lost, forgotten, or abandoned personal items. We do not offer mailing or return services for items left onboard.

 

To the fullest extent permitted by law, WSE disclaims liability for any injury, death, property damage, or financial loss resulting from accidents, natural events, mechanical issues, or other circumstances covered by the Norwegian Maritime Code or related maritime laws.

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8. ACCEPTANCE OF RISKS AND EXCEMPTION OF LIABILITY

By booking and participating in a tour with WSE, you acknowledge that adventure travel involves inherent risks to your health, safety, and personal property. These risks may include, but are not limited to:

• Physical exertion or accidents

• Travel in remote Arctic or wilderness areas

• Transport by boat or small watercraft

• Unpredictable and extreme weather

• Participation in optional activities such as kayaking, SUP, hot tub use, or polar plunges

 

You confirm that you have evaluated your own physical condition and accept full responsibility for your ability to participate safely. You voluntarily assume all risks, including the possibility of injury, illness, death, or loss or damage to property.

 

You agree to follow all applicable laws, as well as instructions from WSE’s Captain, crew, guides, or activity leaders. If you behave dangerously, illegally, or fail to follow instructions, WSE reserves the right to deny your participation or remove you from the tour at your own expense, without refund or further liability.

 

WSE is not liable for any delay or failure in performance caused by events beyond its control, including but not limited to: force majeure, such as war, terrorism, epidemics, extreme weather, port closures, or natural disasters.

 

WSE may use third-party suppliers (e.g. transportation providers, hotels, activities). These suppliers are independent contractors and not employees or agents of WSE. WSE is not responsible for their actions, omissions, or negligence. Any claims related to such services must be directed to the relevant supplier. If requested, WSE may assist in forwarding complaints but assumes no liability for resolution.

 

All guests must sign a separate waiver before participating, confirming they understand and accept these risks and that WSE is released from related liability.

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9. GENERAL LIABILITY

WSE and its personnel are only liable for damages caused by gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

 

WSE may work with subcontractors, assistants, or third-party service providers to deliver parts of your tour. Where services are lawfully delegated, WSE is not responsible for the actions or failures of these third parties.

 

WSE expressly disclaims responsibility for:

• The actions or negligence of third-party providers

• Incidents involving activity leaders outside their contracted duties

• The behavior or conduct of other participants

• Force majeure events, such as extreme weather, natural disasters, or government restrictions

• Delays, itinerary changes, or missed experiences due to external causes

 

All guests must follow the instructions of WSE personnel, including the Captain, crew, and guides. Failure to do so releases WSE from all liability for any resulting damages, injuries, or losses.

 

By booking and participating, you agree to these liability limitations and accept that your participation is at your own risk.

 

10. COMPLAINTS AND CLAIMS

If you experience any issues or wish to make a claim related to your tour or activities, you must notify the activity leader or a WSE representative immediately and in writing during the tour. WSE will document your complaint but may not admit liability or resolve claims on the spot.

 

If the issue is not resolved during the tour and you wish to pursue it further, a formal written complaint must be submitted to WSE within 7 days after the tour’s completion. Your complaint should include Your complaint should include details of the issue, any supporting evidence, and a copy of WSE’s written confirmation of your initial report if available.

 

Failure to report your complaint during the tour or submit a written claim within the 7-day timeframe may invalidate your claim and release WSE from further responsibility. WSE will investigate all complaints promptly and fairly but cannot accept liability for claims submitted late or without sufficient documentation.

 

11. MEDIA RELEASE AND CONSENT

By participating in a tour with WSE, you acknowledge that photos, videos, or other media (“Media”) may be captured by WSE staff, its representatives, contractors or other participants. You grant WSE and its affiliates a perpetual, royalty-free, worldwide, irrevocable license to use, reproduce, publish, and distribute such Media for any lawful purpose, including but not limited to marketing, advertising, promotion, and publication in any media now known or later developed.

 

You waive any right to review or approve the final content and release WSE from any claims related to the use of your image or likeness. If you do not wish to appear in photos or videos, you must inform WSE before or at the start of the tour and take reasonable steps to avoid being photographed or recorded.

 

12. PRIVACY POLICY AND USE OF PERSONAL INFORMATION

To deliver our services, WSE collects and processes personal information such as your name, contact details, special requirements (e.g., dietary or accessibility needs), and payment information.

 

This data is used only for the purpose of organizing and delivering your booked services. Your information may be shared with third-party providers directly involved in your travel arrangements, such as transportation providers, accommodation partners, port authorities, or activity suppliers.

 

WSE does not sell or share personal data with unrelated third parties.

 

Your data will be stored securely and retained only for as long as necessary or as required by law. You have the right to access, correct, restrict, or request deletion of your personal information held by WSE by contacting us at info@worldseaexplorers.com.

 

If you provide information on behalf of others (such as family or travel companions), you confirm that you have obtained their consent and informed them of these terms.

 

WSE may contact you with important information about your booking or occasional marketing communications (e.g., updates, news, special offers). You may opt out of marketing communications at any time by emailing info@worldseaexplorers.com.

 

By providing your personal data, you confirm your understanding and acceptance of this Privacy Policy as part of these Terms & Conditions.

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13. MODIFICATIONS AND ERRORS

 All content on the WSE website, booking platforms, and other materials is subject to change without prior notice. WSE does not guarantee that all information is accurate, complete, or current, and reserves the right to correct errors or update details as needed.

These Terms and Conditions may also be updated or modified at any time at WSE’s sole discretion without prior notice.

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14. GOVERNING LAW AND SEVERABILITY

These Terms and Conditions are governed by and shall be construed in accordance with the laws of Norway. Any disputes arising from or relating to these Terms are subject to Norwegian jurisdiction. If any part of these Terms is held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remainder shall remain fully effective. The invalid provision shall be replaced by a valid term that best reflects the original intent.

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15. KNOWING AND VOLUNTARY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

By booking and participating, you confirm that you have had sufficient time to read and understand these Terms and Conditions fully. You voluntarily agree to all provisions, including the legal consequences of this agreement.

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UPDATED JULY 2025