A record performance in 2024 saw profits at Intrepid Travel rise by almost a quarter year on year.
The increase of an underlying earnings [ebitda] of 24% to A$42.9 million (£22.4 million) came on the back of a 17% rise in revenue to A$626 million (£327 million).
The results led to the operator paying A$12.8 million (£6.7 million) in bonuses to eligible employees in the form of both cash and shares. Intrepid had approximately 555 staff shareholders in 2024.
The year saw the best all-round performance in Intrepid’s 35-year history, driven by “operational and commercial excellence”, according to the company.
However, Intrepid “accepts that it is facing challenges with its decarbonisation programme, as many are across the industry”.
The B Corp business plans to increase investment in decarbonisation initiatives to accelerate progress in this area.
“The 2024 business performance shows that despite ongoing cost-of-living pressures globally, travellers continue to invest in experiences and Intrepid’s style of community-focused travel,” the company added.
Further global expansion is planned this year including more investment in the North American market with a new sales and marketing office in Seattle, as well as a number of new country offices (DMCs) around the world.
This includes its latest DMC in Denmark, which officially opened earlier in March, as well as its new operation in Amsterdam, due to the acquisition of Dutch travel company Sawadee Reizen in February.
Chief executive James Thornton said: “I’m exceptionally proud of our team who are delivering outstanding experiences for our customers and making a positive impact for communities around the world.
“In 2025, we are committed to building on this success and working closely with our industry partners to show that travel can bring people together, foster greater understanding and create positive impact when done responsibly. What we achieved last year is once again proof that it is possible to grow both profit and purpose.”