Intrepid Travel has just logged its biggest-ever trading month, culminating in its largest trading day in 35 years on 5 December. This record-breaking day closed out their annual Cyber Sale, showing that responsible, small-group travel is resonating with post-pandemic travellers like never before.
The numbers don’t lie
What’s trending? Destinations like Morocco, Japan, Vietnam, Peru, and Turkey led the charge, with Southern Europe and Southeast Asia hot on their heels. Intrepid’s Original and Premium trip styles took centre stage, attracting 69% of revenue from travellers aged 51 to 80.
Brett Mitchell, Intrepid Travel ANZ Managing Director, called 2024 “a standout year” for the company.
“This exceptional year is a direct result of the hard work from our ANZ team and partners,” he said.
“Over the past two years, we’ve laid the groundwork for future growth while staying true to our commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
“Our record-breaking month demonstrates that purpose and profit can go hand in hand.”
Beyond the numbers
The month wasn’t just about booking trips. Customers also opened their wallets to support The Intrepid Foundation, Intrepid’s philanthropic arm. Thanks to a dollar-for-dollar matching initiative, donations amplified support for local communities, raising funds for vital causes.
Two standout contributions included:
- 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 its inception in 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has raised more than AU$16 million, supporting 160 global partners.
A year to remember
Mitchell didn’t mince words about the company’s achievements this year, which marks Intrepid Travel’s 35th anniversary. Alongside record-breaking sales, the company launched its first book, The Intrepid List, and snagged multiple accolades, including ‘Outstanding Tour Operator – Global’ at the NTIA Awards and a spot on the AFR Fast 100 list of Australia’s fastest-growing companies.
“This year shows that travellers today are seeking more than just a trip—they want meaningful connections,” Mitchell said.
“Experiences are replacing things, and people are choosing travel that leaves a positive impact.”
In related news, Intrepid Travel earned the second spot on the Australian Financial Review’s 2024 Fast 100 list, boasting an impressive 394.51% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over two years.
CEO James Thornton describes the achievement as the culmination of decades of innovation, joking, “We joke that it’s almost like we’ve become a 35-year-old overnight success story.”
The Melbourne-based company attributes its growth to its ability to align with modern travellers’ evolving preferences. Expanding into premium tours, food-focused itineraries, and family trips, Intrepid has set itself apart by establishing 30 destination management companies. This direct approach replaces outsourced operators, enabling stronger margins, better-quality products, and local job creation.
Marking its 35th anniversary, Intrepid hosted an event in Melbourne, highlighting plans to open ten new offices in Europe, Asia, and Latin America and expand its eco-accommodation portfolio. By 2030, the company aims to double its global customer base to 600,000, with ambitious plans to reach $1.3 billion in global revenue.
What’s next for Intrepid?
2025 is shaping up to be another landmark year. Mitchell shared that the company plans to expand its domestic offerings and introduce innovative experiences that stick to its core values of responsible travel.
“The future of travel is about making a meaningful impact, and we’re committed to leading that charge,” he said.
Advisors! Don’t miss out on chances to WIN!
To thank their agents, Intrepid has rolled out an Advent(ure) Calendar with 12 daily prizes running until 20 December. Prizes include trips to Japan and copies of The Intrepid List. Agents can enter by securing a deposit on any Intrepid trip between 9–20 December. Winners are announced daily on Intrepid’s exclusive Agent Hub and Facebook.
