The Fine Print
Booking Terms and Conditions
Northern Lights Guide is owned and operated by Andy Keen, offering trips and expeditions worldwide. Andy Keen provides guiding services as a professional photographer specialising in Northern Lights, astrophotography, deep-sky imaging, and Arctic nature. These terms and conditions outline the agreement between you and Northern Lights Guide. By booking a trip or expedition, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to these terms.
1. Booking and Payment Terms
1.1 Deposit
- A non-refundable and non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your place on a trip or expedition.
1.2 Final Balance
- The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 90 days before the start of the trip or expedition.
- If the final payment is not received by this date, your booking may be cancelled, and the deposit forfeited.
1.3 Payment Methods
- Payments are accepted via international bank transfer (bank details provided upon request).
2. Cancellations and Refunds
2.1 Cancellation by the Participant
- Cancellations must be made in writing.
- Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
- If you cancel more than 90 days before the start date, any payments made beyond the deposit will be refunded, subject to:
- A 2.9% deduction for bank/credit card processing fees.
- A £35 administrative charge.
- Cancellations made within 90 days of the start date result in full loss of payment, unless a replacement participant is found. In this case, a refund (excluding the deposit) may be issued at Andy Keen’s discretion.
2.2 Cancellation by Northern Lights Guide
- If a trip or expedition is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances, a full refund of all payments, including the deposit, will be issued.
- Northern Lights Guide is not responsible for any additional costs, such as flights, accommodation, or other travel expenses.
3. Travel and Health Insurance
3.1 Insurance Requirements
- Participants must obtain comprehensive travel and health insurance covering:
- Medical emergencies
- Cancellations
- Lost or damaged equipment
- Any risks associated with the trip or expedition
3.2 Proof of Insurance
- Participants may be required to provide proof of insurance before the trip.
4. Responsibilities, Disclaimers, and Risk Acknowledgement
4.1 Guiding Services
- Northern Lights Guide trips are designed and operated by Andy Keen, who provides guiding services but does not act as a travel agent or tour operator.
- Participants are responsible for arranging their own flights, accommodation, and logistics, unless otherwise specified.
4.2 Accommodation Costs
- In cases where pre-booked accommodation is necessary, its cost will be deducted from the overall package price.
- Participants will only be invoiced for guiding services and activities.
- Accommodation payments may either be paid directly to the provider or as a pass-through expense with a clear breakdown on the invoice.
4.3 Personal Risk
- By booking, you acknowledge that participation is at your own risk.
- While every effort is made to ensure safety, Andy Keen is not responsible for accidents, injuries, illnesses, or property loss, except in cases of gross negligence or wilful misconduct.
5. Emergency Procedures
5.1 Emergency Plan
- In case of severe weather, medical emergencies, or unforeseen situations, an emergency plan will be implemented.
- Participants are expected to follow all safety instructions.
6. Booking Requirements
6.1 Age Restrictions
- Participants must be at least 18 years old.
- Minors may join only if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
6.2 Physical Fitness
- Participants must be physically fit for activities that may include walking on uneven terrain in extreme weather.
6.3 Equipment
- Participants must bring their own photographic equipment, appropriate clothing, and personal items for the trip.
7. Photographic Rights
7.1 Use of Images
- Andy Keen reserves the right to photograph or film during trips and expeditions.
- If you do not wish to appear in promotional materials, written notification must be provided before the trip.
8. 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.
9. Participant Agreement
- By paying the deposit and joining a Northern Lights Guide trip, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to these terms.
- Your payment serves as your acceptance of these conditions.