Booking Terms and Conditions

1. Important Notice

2. Business Identity

Along the Shaws is a Cape Town–based private tour and transfer service. References to "Along the Shaws", "we", "us" and "our" in these Terms refer to the trading entity operating the Along the Shaws brand.

3. Scope

These Terms apply to all private tours, wine experiences, transfers, packages and any other services arranged or provided by Along the Shaws, whether booked directly, through an agent or through any third-party platform. These Terms apply to the lead guest and all members of the guest group.

4. Definitions

• "Booking" means a confirmed reservation for a service, created after all required conditions have been satisfied.
• "Enquiry" means a request for information or availability, which does not constitute a booking or create any obligation.
• "Quotation" means a written price estimate provided by Along the Shaws, which does not confirm availability or constitute a booking.
• "Service" means any tour, transfer, package, wine experience or other experience arranged or provided by Along the Shaws.
• "Supplier" means any independent third-party provider of goods or services forming part of a guest's experience, including venues, wineries, restaurants, activity operators and transport companies.
• "Guest" means the person or persons for whom a booking is made, including all members of the guest group.
• "Force Majeure" has the meaning given in clause 26 of these Terms.

5. Acceptance of Terms

These Terms are accepted when any of the following occurs:

• You submit an enquiry through the Along the Shaws website.
• You accept a quotation, whether electronically or in writing.
• You make or authorise a payment for any service.
• You participate in any service arranged by Along the Shaws.

Acceptance by one member of a guest group constitutes acceptance on behalf of all members of that group. By accepting, you confirm that all members of your party have been informed of and agree to these Terms.

6. Enquiries and Availability

An enquiry is a request for information or availability only. Submitting an enquiry does not constitute a booking, does not reserve a date, and does not create any obligation on either party. Along the Shaws will endeavour to respond to all enquiries promptly but cannot guarantee a specific response time. Availability is not confirmed until Along the Shaws issues written confirmation of a booking.

7. Quotations

A quotation is an estimate of price and inclusions, prepared specifically for the guest. Quotations are valid for the period stated and may be withdrawn before acceptance. A quotation does not confirm availability, guarantee prices or constitute a booking. Prices in a quotation are subject to change if supplier costs, exchange rates or other material factors change before the quotation is accepted and a booking is confirmed.

8. Pricing

All prices are stated in South African Rand (ZAR) unless otherwise indicated. Prices are per group or per person as stated on the quotation. Prices may vary depending on group size, date, season, collection area, supplier costs and the nature of the experience. Attraction and tasting fees payable directly to venues are not included unless stated. Along the Shaws reserves the right to correct pricing errors. If a significant error is discovered after acceptance, Along the Shaws will notify the guest and may offer cancellation or re-quotation.

9. Taxes

Along the Shaws is not currently registered for Value Added Tax (VAT). No VAT is charged on the services of Along the Shaws unless this position changes, in which case Guests will be notified. Certain third-party suppliers may charge VAT or other taxes independently.

10. Deposits

A deposit is required to secure a booking, as stated on the quotation. The deposit percentage and minimum amount will be confirmed on each quotation. Payment of a deposit does not by itself confirm a booking. A booking is confirmed only when Along the Shaws has issued written confirmation after receiving the deposit, completing availability checks and obtaining any necessary supplier confirmations.

11. Balance Payments

The balance of the quoted price is due as stated on the quotation or booking confirmation. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, the balance is due by the date of the service. Failure to pay the balance by the due date may result in cancellation of the booking without refund of the deposit.

12. Online Card Payments

Where online card payment is offered, payments are processed through Yoco's secure hosted checkout. A payment link is sent to the guest after the quotation has been accepted. Clicking a payment link and being redirected to Yoco's checkout does not confirm payment. A return to the Along the Shaws website after the Yoco checkout does not by itself confirm payment. Payment is confirmed only after Along the Shaws receives verified confirmation from Yoco that the transaction was successful.

13. Payment Security

Along the Shaws does not receive, store or process card numbers, CVVs or other sensitive card data. All card processing is handled by Yoco in accordance with their PCI DSS compliance obligations. Along the Shaws receives only payment status notifications and reference numbers from Yoco. Guest payment data is governed by Yoco's privacy and security policies.

14. Booking Confirmation

A booking is confirmed only when all of the following conditions have been satisfied:

• The required deposit or full payment has been received and verified.
• Availability has been confirmed for the requested date and service.
• Any required supplier confirmations have been obtained.
• Along the Shaws has issued written booking confirmation.

Until written confirmation is issued, no booking exists and no guarantee of service on the requested date is given.

15. Customer Changes

Requests to change a confirmed booking (including date, tour, group size or collection point) are subject to availability and may attract an amendment fee. Changes requested close to the service date may be treated as a cancellation and re-booking. Along the Shaws will endeavour to accommodate reasonable requests where possible.

16. Cancellation Rights

Guests have the right to cancel any booking, subject to the cancellation charge framework set out in these Terms. Cancellation requests must be made in writing or through the Along the Shaws cancellation request process. Oral cancellations are not accepted. A cancellation is effective from the date Along the Shaws receives written notice.

17. Reasonable Cancellation Charges

Along the Shaws does not apply automatic fixed cancellation penalty percentages. Cancellation charges are determined reasonably on a case-by-case basis, taking into account all relevant factors, including:

• The amount of notice given before the service date.
• Supplier costs already committed on behalf of the guest that cannot be recovered.
• Supplier refunds obtained or obtainable.
• Whether the date or service has been resold or is likely to be resold.
• The nature and extent of custom-planning or preparation work completed.
• The nature of the service and the circumstances of the booking.
• Applicable consumer protection considerations.
• Any extraordinary circumstances, including death, hospitalisation or force majeure.

The guest will be informed of the assessed cancellation charge before any deduction is made. Where a refund is due, it will be processed promptly after any supplier deductions have been confirmed.

18. Cancellation Framework

The following indicative framework is provided as a guide only. Actual charges will be determined as set out in clause 17 above. The framework does not constitute automatic penalties.

These percentages represent the maximum that may be charged in ordinary circumstances. The actual charge may be lower, taking into account all relevant factors. Non-refundable supplier costs may result in a charge at any cancellation stage regardless of notice.

19. Death and Hospitalisation

In cases of death or emergency hospitalisation of the lead guest or an immediate family member, Along the Shaws will consider waiving or substantially reducing cancellation charges, subject to the provision of appropriate documentation. Each case will be assessed with compassion and sensitivity.

20. Cooling-Off Rights

South African consumer law may provide certain cooling-off rights in specific circumstances. Where applicable, Along the Shaws will honour these rights. Guests are advised to review the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 or seek independent legal advice if uncertain about their rights.

21. Refunds

Where a refund is approved, it will be processed within a reasonable time after the cancellation decision is finalised and any supplier deductions are confirmed. Refunds will be returned by the same method used for payment, where practicable. Along the Shaws is not responsible for bank processing times.

22. No-Shows

If a guest fails to appear at the agreed collection point at the agreed time without prior notice, the booking may be treated as a no-show and cancelled without refund. Along the Shaws will attempt to contact the guest at the provided contact details before treating a booking as a no-show.

23. Late Arrival

Guests are required to be at the agreed collection point and ready to depart at the agreed time. Late arrival may result in reduced tour time, itinerary changes, or in cases of excessive delay, cancellation of the booking. No refund is due for time lost due to late arrival by the guest.

24. Changes by Along the Shaws

Along the Shaws reserves the right to make reasonable changes to confirmed bookings, including itinerary adjustments, alternative venues, timing changes and vehicle substitutions, where necessary due to weather, supplier availability, safety considerations, road conditions or other circumstances beyond Along the Shaws' reasonable control. Where a significant change is necessary before the service date, the guest will be notified and offered a suitable alternative or, where appropriate, a refund.

25. Cancellation by Along the Shaws

Along the Shaws reserves the right to cancel a booking due to safety concerns, insufficient numbers, force majeure events, supplier failure or other extraordinary circumstances. In such cases, the guest will be offered an alternative date or a full refund of amounts paid, excluding non-refundable supplier costs where applicable. Along the Shaws is not liable for additional costs incurred by the guest as a result of cancellation, including flights, accommodation or other travel costs.

26. Force Majeure

Along the Shaws is not liable for failure to perform any obligation due to circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to: acts of God, severe weather events, natural disasters, fires, floods, pandemics, epidemics, government restrictions, strikes, civil unrest, acts of war or terrorism, power failures, closure of roads or public access areas, or failure of third-party suppliers. In force majeure circumstances, Along the Shaws will endeavour to reschedule or offer alternative arrangements and will not charge cancellation fees for cancellations it initiates due to force majeure.

27. Weather

Cape Town's weather is variable and some experiences are weather-dependent. Along the Shaws will monitor conditions and, where possible, advise guests of significant weather concerns before the service date. Where weather prevents a service from proceeding safely, Along the Shaws will endeavour to reschedule or offer a suitable alternative. Weather that is merely unpleasant but does not prevent safe operation does not entitle a guest to cancellation without charge. Along the Shaws is not responsible for weather conditions at individual venues or attractions.

28. Independent Suppliers

Some services arranged by Along the Shaws involve independent third-party suppliers, including but not limited to wineries, restaurants, activity operators, boat operators, cage-diving operators, accommodation providers and tour venues. Along the Shaws acts as an agent or facilitator in arranging access to supplier services and is not responsible for the acts, omissions, facilities, safety standards or pricing of independent suppliers. Supplier-operated components are subject to the supplier's own terms, conditions and waivers, which may apply in addition to these Terms.

29. Supplier Price Changes

Along the Shaws endeavours to maintain accurate pricing but is not always able to anticipate changes by independent suppliers, including entrance fees, tasting fees, activity costs and meal prices. Where a material supplier price increase occurs after a booking is confirmed, Along the Shaws will notify the guest and discuss options in good faith.

30. Travel Documents

It is the guest's responsibility to hold valid passports, visas and any other documents required to enter South Africa or any venue visited during the tour. Along the Shaws is not responsible for any costs, losses or service interruptions arising from a guest's failure to hold appropriate travel documents.

31. Health, Mobility and Accessibility

Guests with medical conditions, mobility requirements or accessibility needs must inform Along the Shaws at the time of enquiry. Along the Shaws will endeavour to accommodate guests' needs within the constraints of the service and venue. Along the Shaws is not responsible for the accessibility standards of independent venues. Some experiences involve walking on uneven terrain, stairs, or outdoor environments that may not be accessible to all guests.

32. Special Personal Information

Dietary requirements, health information, mobility requirements and similar special categories of personal information are collected only where voluntarily provided and with the guest's express consent. This information is used solely to plan and deliver the service safely. It is handled in accordance with the Along the Shaws Privacy Policy and the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA). Along the Shaws does not retain or share special information beyond what is operationally necessary.

33. Children

Children are welcome on appropriate services. The lead booker accepts these Terms on behalf of all child guests. Appropriate child seats will be provided where required by law. Minimum age restrictions imposed by independent suppliers apply and are not within Along the Shaws' control. Parents and guardians are responsible for the supervision and safety of children throughout the experience.

34. Alcohol

Wine tasting and other alcohol-related experiences are intended for guests aged 18 and over. Along the Shaws and its supplier venues reserve the right to refuse service of alcohol to any guest. Guests are responsible for their own consumption. Along the Shaws does not encourage excessive consumption and is not responsible for the effects of alcohol on a guest's experience, health or behaviour.

35. Guest Conduct

Guests are required to conduct themselves in a manner that is respectful of other guests, Along the Shaws staff, supplier employees, venue rules and local laws. Along the Shaws reserves the right to terminate a service without refund if a guest's conduct is unsafe, disruptive, abusive, threatening or otherwise unacceptable. The guest will be responsible for any costs or losses caused by their misconduct, including supplier charges, damage or cleaning costs.

36. Smoking and Illegal Substances

Smoking, vaping and the use of illegal substances are not permitted in Along the Shaws vehicles or at any venue during an Along the Shaws service. Guests who smoke must do so only in designated outdoor areas at venues that permit smoking. Non-compliance may result in termination of the service.

37. Vehicles

Along the Shaws uses private vehicles maintained to roadworthy standards. Vehicle specifications, including make, model and capacity, will be confirmed on the quotation where relevant. Along the Shaws reserves the right to substitute a vehicle of equivalent capacity where necessary due to maintenance, mechanical failure or other operational requirements. Guests must wear seatbelts at all times. Capacity limits will not be exceeded. Waiting time in excess of that included in the service may attract additional charges.

38. Vehicle Images

Vehicle images shown on the Along the Shaws website and marketing materials are representative only. Specific vehicle registration details are stored internally for operational purposes and are not published publicly unless approved.

39. Luggage

Luggage is carried at the guest's own risk. Along the Shaws will accommodate reasonable luggage within vehicle capacity. Excessive luggage may not be accommodated and guests should confirm luggage requirements at the time of enquiry, particularly for airport transfers.

40. Personal Belongings

Along the Shaws is not responsible for the loss, theft, or damage to personal belongings, luggage, electronic equipment, valuables or any other items during any service. Guests are advised to keep valuables secured at all times and to obtain appropriate travel insurance.

41. Itineraries

Itineraries are planned in good faith and represent Along the Shaws' best estimate of the experience. Actual timing, sequence, venue availability and inclusions may vary due to weather, traffic, attraction opening hours, supplier availability and other factors. Along the Shaws will make reasonable alternative arrangements where necessary. No refund is due for minor itinerary variations that do not materially affect the overall experience.

42. Photographs and Video

Along the Shaws may photograph or film guests during a service for use in marketing materials, social media or testimonials. Guests who do not consent to being photographed or filmed must notify Along the Shaws before the service. Where consent is given, it may be withdrawn at any time by contacting Along the Shaws. Photographs and video of children require explicit guardian consent. Guests who photograph or film a service do so at their own discretion and are responsible for respecting the privacy and consent of other guests.

43. Reviews

Guests are encouraged to leave honest reviews on platforms of their choice. Along the Shaws may request permission to reproduce reviews on its website or marketing materials. Reproduction of a review requires the guest's consent and is subject to the Along the Shaws Privacy Policy. Along the Shaws will always attribute reviews fairly and will not alter their meaning.

44. Risk Notice

45. High-Risk Activities

Activities including but not limited to shark-cage diving, whale watching, boat excursions, mountain hiking, cycling, safari activities, wildlife encounters and aerial activities carry specific risks that exceed ordinary tourism experiences. Where such activities are included, the guest will be provided with specific risk information and may be required to sign a supplier waiver. Along the Shaws is not the operator of these activities and does not accept liability for the conduct, safety standards or incidents arising from independently operated activities.

46. Along the Shaws' Responsibilities

Along the Shaws will provide the services described in the confirmed booking with reasonable care and skill. Along the Shaws is responsible for the professional conduct of its own staff and the roadworthiness of its own vehicles. Along the Shaws is not responsible for the services, conduct, facilities or safety of independent suppliers.

47. Limitations of Liability

48. Supplier Liability

Along the Shaws acts as an agent in arranging independently operated services. Along the Shaws is not party to the contract between the guest and the supplier and is not responsible for the supplier's performance, safety standards, conduct or facilities. Guests' recourse in respect of independently operated services is against the relevant supplier. Along the Shaws will provide reasonable assistance in directing complaints to the appropriate supplier.

49. Guest Indemnity

To the fullest extent permitted by law, guests indemnify Along the Shaws, its staff and agents against all claims, losses, damages and costs arising from: the guest's own negligence or misconduct; the guest's failure to follow safety instructions or supplier rules; the guest's breach of these Terms; or any act or omission of the guest that causes loss to Along the Shaws, its staff, other guests or third parties.

50. Travel Insurance

Along the Shaws strongly recommends that all guests obtain appropriate travel insurance before travelling. Travel insurance should cover, at a minimum, cancellation and curtailment, medical expenses and emergency evacuation, personal liability and loss or theft of belongings. Along the Shaws does not provide travel insurance and is not responsible for any loss that would have been covered by appropriate insurance.

51. Complaints

Complaints should be raised with Along the Shaws as soon as reasonably possible during the service, so that the matter can be addressed. Written complaints should be submitted within 14 days of the service date. Along the Shaws will acknowledge complaints promptly and endeavour to resolve them in good faith. Contact details for complaints are set out in clause 62 of these Terms.

52. Dispute Resolution

In the event of a dispute, the parties will endeavour to resolve the matter amicably before commencing formal proceedings. If a dispute cannot be resolved informally, the parties may agree to refer the matter to mediation. This clause does not limit any statutory rights of consumers under South African law.

53. Privacy

Along the Shaws processes personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA) and the Along the Shaws Privacy Policy. The Privacy Policy is available at along the Shaws Privacy Policy. By accepting these Terms, you acknowledge that you have read the Privacy Policy.

54. Electronic Communications

Quotations, booking confirmations, receipts and other communications sent electronically to the email address provided by the guest are deemed received when sent, unless the sender receives a delivery failure notice. It is the guest's responsibility to ensure that the email address provided is accurate and that Along the Shaws emails are not filtered to a junk or spam folder.

55. Website Use

The Along the Shaws website is provided for information and enquiry purposes. While Along the Shaws endeavours to keep website content accurate and current, it does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of any content. Website availability is not guaranteed. Availability calendars and pricing shown on the website are indicative only and are subject to confirmation.

56. Intellectual Property

All content on the Along the Shaws website, including photographs, text, itineraries, logos and branding, is the intellectual property of Along the Shaws or its licensors and may not be reproduced, distributed or used without prior written permission.

57. Third-Party Links

The Along the Shaws website may contain links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Along the Shaws is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of linked websites.

58. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the Republic of South Africa, including the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 and the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013.

59. Jurisdiction

Any dispute arising from these Terms or any booking will be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of the Republic of South Africa.

60. Notices

Notices under these Terms must be given in writing. Electronic communications, including email and WhatsApp messages, are accepted as written notices for the purposes of these Terms.

61. Assignment

Guests may not transfer or assign their booking to another person without the prior written consent of Along the Shaws. Along the Shaws may arrange services through subcontractors without requiring guest consent, provided the nature and quality of the service is maintained.

62. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid, unlawful or unenforceable, that provision will be severed from the Terms. The remaining provisions will continue in full force and effect.

63. No Waiver

Failure by Along the Shaws to enforce any provision of these Terms does not constitute a waiver of the right to enforce that provision at a later time.

64. Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with the relevant quotation, booking confirmation and any written amendments agreed by both parties, constitute the entire agreement between Along the Shaws and the guest in respect of the relevant booking. They supersede all prior representations, discussions and agreements.

65. Changes to Terms

Along the Shaws may update these Terms from time to time. Updated Terms will be published on the Along the Shaws website with a new version number and effective date. Existing confirmed bookings will ordinarily remain governed by the version of the Terms accepted at the time of booking. New enquiries and bookings will be subject to the current version.

66. Contact

For booking enquiries, complaints, cancellation requests or any matter arising from these Terms, please contact Along the Shaws:

67. Booking Acceptance

By accepting a quotation, making a payment or participating in any service, the guest confirms that they have read, understood and agree to be bound by these Booking Terms and Conditions in their entirety, including the Important Notice and the limitations of liability set out in clause 47.