Keen on Adventure is a brand owned and operated by Andy Keen, offering workshops and expeditions worldwide. Andy Keen provides guiding services as a professional photographer specialising in Northern Lights, astrophotography, deep-sky imaging, and Arctic nature. Please read these terms and conditions carefully before booking, as they outline your agreement with Andy Keen and Keen on Adventure.
1. Booking and Payment Terms
- Deposit: A 25% non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your place on the workshop or expedition.
- Final Balance: The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 90 days before the start of the workshop or expedition. If the final payment is not received by this date, your booking may be cancelled, and the deposit will be forfeited.
- Payment Method: Payments are accepted via international bank transfer (details provided upon request).
2. Cancellations and Refunds
- Participant Cancellation:
- Cancellations must be made in writing.
- Deposits are non-refundable / non-transferable.
- If you cancel more than 90 days before the start of the workshop or expedition, any payments made beyond the deposit will be refunded.
- Cancellations made within 90 days of the start date will result in the loss of the full balance unless a replacement participant is found. In this case, any payments beyond the deposit may be refunded at Andy Keen’s discretion.
- Workshop Cancellation by Andy Keen:
- In the unlikely event that a workshop or expedition is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances, you will receive a full refund of all payments made, including the deposit. However, Keen on Adventure is not responsible for any additional costs incurred, such as flights, accommodation, or other travel expenses.
3. Travel and Health Insurance
- Insurance Requirements: Participants must take out comprehensive travel and health insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, lost or damaged equipment, and any risks associated with the workshop or expedition.
- Proof of Insurance: Participants may be asked to provide proof of insurance prior to the workshop or expedition.
4. Responsibilities, Disclaimers, and Risk Acknowledgement
- Guiding Services: Keen on Adventure workshops and expeditions are designed and operated by Andy Keen. Andy provides guiding services during the workshops but does not act as a travel agent or tour operator. Participants are responsible for arranging their own flights, accommodation, and related logistics unless otherwise specified.
- Accommodation Costs: When accommodation is pre-booked for logistical reasons (e.g., in Northern Scandinavia where options are limited), the cost of the accommodation will be deducted from the overall cost of the activity package. Participants will only be invoiced for guiding services and any activity programmes directly linked to the workshops or expeditions. Accommodation payments may be made directly to the provider or included as a pass-through expense on your invoice, with the breakdown clearly indicated.
- Non-Tour Operator Disclaimer: This arrangement is made purely for logistical convenience and does not constitute a bundled tour service. Keen on Adventure does not act as a tour operator or travel agent and does not offer package tours subject to EU package travel regulations.
- Personal Risk: By booking and participating, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk. While every effort is made to ensure your safety, Andy Keen cannot be held responsible for any accidents, injuries, illnesses, loss of or damage to personal property, or other unforeseen circumstances except in cases of gross negligence or wilful misconduct.
- Aurora Borealis Disclaimer: While every effort is made to locate and observe the Aurora Borealis, sightings cannot be guaranteed due to the unpredictability of local weather and solar activity. However, Andy Keen guarantees to use his expertise and diligence to maximise your chances within the bounds of safety and practicality.
- Weather Conditions and Itinerary Modifications: Workshops and expeditions may require itinerary adjustments due to weather or other conditions. These changes are made to ensure the best experience for participants while prioritising safety.
- Physical Activity and Terrain: Workshops may involve physical activities such as walking on uneven terrain or being outdoors in extreme weather. Participants must be in good health and capable of participating in such activities.
5. Emergency Procedures
- Emergency Plan: In the event of severe weather, medical emergencies, or unforeseen situations, Andy Keen will implement an emergency plan to ensure participants’ safety. This may involve altering the itinerary, cancelling specific activities, or seeking medical assistance. Participants are expected to follow all instructions during emergencies.
6. Booking Requirements
- Age: Participants must be at least 18 years of age. Minors may participate only if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
- Physical Fitness: Participants must be in good health and capable of participating in activities that may involve walking on uneven terrain in potentially extreme weather.
- Equipment: Participants are responsible for bringing their own photographic equipment, clothing, and other personal items necessary for the workshop or expedition.
7. Photographic Rights
- Use of Images: Andy Keen reserves the right to take photographs or videos during the workshop or expedition and use them for promotional purposes. If you do not wish to appear in these materials, please inform Andy Keen in writing before the workshop begins.
8. Force Majeure
Keen on Adventure is not liable for any failure to perform due to circumstances beyond reasonable control (Force Majeure), including but not limited to natural disasters, pandemics, war, or travel disruptions.
9. Amendments
Keen on Adventure reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions at any time. Participants will be notified in writing of any changes, which will apply to future bookings.
10. Governing Law
These terms and conditions are governed by the laws of Malta. Any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Maltese courts.
11. Participant Agreement
By paying the deposit and joining a Keen on Adventure workshop or expedition, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these terms and conditions. Your payment serves as your acceptance of these terms and your agreement to proceed under these conditions.