Intrepid Travel has had an extraordinary year, leading the travel industry with standout destinations and impressive revenue growth.
Top Destinations Drive Success
Morocco, Japan, Vietnam, Peru, and Turkey emerged as the hottest travel spots this year. Southern Europe and Southeast Asia closely followed, attracting a diverse range of travelers. Intrepid’s Original and Premium trip styles were particularly popular, generating 69% of the company’s revenue from travelers aged 51 to 80. This trend highlights a shift towards more meaningful and immersive travel experiences among seasoned explorers.
Brett Mitchell, Intrepid Travel ANZ Managing Director, praised the team’s efforts, calling 2024 “a standout year” for the company. He emphasized that the success was a direct result of the hard work from the ANZ team and their partners.
“Our record-breaking month shows that purpose and profit can go hand in hand,” Mitchell added. This sentiment resonates with many travelers who seek to make a positive impact through their journeys.
Beyond Bookings: Supporting Communities
The company’s achievements go beyond just booking trips. Intrepid customers also contributed to The Intrepid Foundation, the company’s philanthropic arm. Through a dollar-for-dollar matching initiative, donations were doubled, significantly supporting local communities. This effort raised funds for crucial causes, including flood relief in Valencia, Spain, and recovery efforts for Typhoon Yagi in Southeast Asia.
- AU$34,520 for flood relief in Valencia, Spain (via Casa Caridad)
- AU$44,356 for Typhoon Yagi recovery in Southeast Asia (via Blue Dragon)
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has raised over AU$16 million, aiding 160 global partners. These contributions demonstrate Intrepid’s commitment to social responsibility and environmental stewardship.
Celebrating 35 Years of Adventure
2024 marks Intrepid Travel’s 35th anniversary, a milestone celebrated with numerous achievements. The company launched its first book, “The Intrepid List,” and received multiple accolades, including ‘Outstanding Tour Operator – Global’ at the NTIA Awards. Additionally, Intrepid secured a spot on the AFR Fast 100 list, recognizing it as one of Australia’s fastest-growing companies.
“This year shows that travelers today are seeking more than just a trip—they want meaningful connections,” Mitchell stated. This philosophy is evident in the company’s focus on creating experiences that foster genuine interactions and positive impacts.
Impressive Growth and Future Plans
Intrepid Travel earned the second spot on the Australian Financial Review’s 2024 Fast 100 list, boasting a staggering 394.51% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over two years. CEO James Thornton humorously remarked, “We joke that it’s almost like we’ve become a 35-year-old overnight success story.”
The Melbourne-based company credits its growth to aligning with modern travelers’ evolving preferences. By expanding into premium tours, food-focused itineraries, and family trips, Intrepid has distinguished itself in a competitive market. Establishing 30 destination management companies has allowed for better margins, higher-quality products, and the creation of local jobs.
Looking Ahead: Ambitious Goals for 2030
As Intrepid celebrates its 35th anniversary, the company has ambitious plans for the future. An event in Melbourne highlighted the intention to open ten new offices across Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Additionally, Intrepid aims to expand its eco-accommodation portfolio, reflecting its commitment to sustainable travel.
By 2030, Intrepid Travel aspires to double its global customer base to 600,000 and achieve $1.3 billion in global revenue. These goals underscore the company’s dedication to growth while maintaining its core values of responsible and impactful travel.
Exciting Opportunities for Travel Agents
To show appreciation to their agents, Intrepid launched an Advent(ure) Calendar with 12 daily prizes running until December 20. Prizes include trips to Japan and copies of “The Intrepid List.” Agents can enter by securing a deposit on any Intrepid trip between December 9 and 20. Winners are announced daily on Intrepid’s exclusive Agent Hub, adding a festive and rewarding element to the holiday season.
