Coronavirus policy and update key points:
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All guided and self-guided hikes on the Cape to Cape Track are still going ahead
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There are no current confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Margaret River Region
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Customers who are coming from overseas, been overseas in the past fortnight, contracted coronavirus, or been in contact with someone with the virus must contact us to reshedule
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CCET is implementing a suite of extra safety, health and hygiene measures
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If you can’t make your hike, we now require only 48 hours’ notice before the start of your walk and you can reschedule for free
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Still safe to travel to Margaret River
At Cape To Cape Explorer Tours (CCET), we take great pride in being the local experts on Western Australia’s Cape to Cape Track. We love sharing this magic corner of the globe with the hikers who come and walk with us.
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There is no doubt the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) has created much uncertainly. Whether you have booked a hike with us or are planning one, we want to keep you fully informed about its impact and our changes in policy.
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It’s important to note Tourism Western Australia is still “spreading the message to Australians that Western Australia is open for business”. And that the “best way people can support tourism recovery is to visit”.
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That’s why we’re continuing to run hikes on the Cape to Cape Track. But we’ve rolled out a series of measures to ensure that our customers are not at risk and can comply with safety measures recommended by the Australian Government and the World Health Organisation.
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Guided and self-guided hikes proceeding as normal
There have been no reported cases of coronavirus in the Margaret River Region and all of our guided and self-guided hikes are currently still going ahead.
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However, any customers who are coming from overseas, who have been overseas in the past fortnight, who have contracted coronavirus, or been in contact with someone with the virus must reschedule their trip with us.
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If this applies to you, please get in touch as soon as possible via email at info@capetocapetours.com.au
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Food and catering
CCET has an in-house catering company, Cape To Cape Movable Feast, and we will continue to supply fresh and nutritious lunches and dinners for our catered hikers.
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It is a closed operation and not open to the public. We have also reduced the number of staff in the kitchen and are continuing our already-strict health and hygiene practices.
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That includes sanitising all surfaces and work spaces before and after any food preparation. None of our catering staff have been overseas recently or are ill in any way.
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Out on the Track, our guides are also carrying sanitiser so customers can be sure their hands are sterile at all times, including before eating snacks or lunch.
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During our multi-day guided hikes, you’ll enjoy eating out at various quality restaurants in Margaret River. These venues are also responding to coronavirus by reducing the number of seats for customers, increasing the distance between tables, adhering to strict health and hygiene practices, and accepting credit card instead of cash.
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Transport
CCET operates track transfers for our hikers using our own fleet of cars and mini-buses.
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Where possible we are now doing all transfers in our largest, 19-seater Coaster bus. That means more distance between passengers, allowing you to maintain the recommended 1.5m distance from others.
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In accordance with new directives from the Western Australian Public Transport Authority, we’ve also boosted the cleaning regime for all vehicles.
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Before and after every vehicle transfer, our drivers are sanitising all surfaces and touch points in the vehicle. That includes seats, arm rests and door handles, both inside and outside.
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Rescheduling policy changed to ensure total peace of mind
To give our customers total peace of mind, we’ve changed our rescheduling policy to ensure you’re not left out of pocket.
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If you need to change your travel plans and cannot make your hike, just let us know via email at info@capetocapetours.com.au. As long as you inform us 48 hours or more before the start of your first day, there is no fee for rescheduling to a later date.
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That’s a massive change from the 30-day policy we had before the outbreak of coronavirus. It’s designed to ensure you can hike with us at a later date and won’t miss out on experiencing the epic Cape to Cape Track!
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“We realise it’s worrying times,” says CCET managing director Gene Hardy.
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“We want people to have faith that if something happens and they have to change their travel plans, we’ll be totally flexible with their bookings. We want people to be able to plan ahead and enjoy the anticipation of their upcoming trip.
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“We are going to do everything that the Government says we need to do. And be led by them. We are following the directives that have been issued. And if it changes, we will change accordingly.”
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Staying informed by the experts
First and foremost, we care about everyone’s safety. So we’re closely monitoring the situation through the World Health Organisation, the Australian Federal Government, the West Australian Government and Tourism WA.
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That’s to ensure we are giving you the most up-to-date information possible. This blog will be updated regularly with any new information of changes in circumstances, so come back to it regularly.
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What you can do to combat coronavirus
No matter where you live, and whether you are hiking with us or not, it’s worth repeating the World Health Organisation’s advice for protecting yourself and others. That includes:
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Wash your hands frequently with soap and/or alcohol-based sanitisers.
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Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
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Cover your mouth or nose when you sneeze or cough.
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Maintain distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
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If you have a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing yourself, seek medical attention.
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Stay at home if you are sick and contact us to reschedule your hike.
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If you suspect you may have coronavirus symptoms or may have had close contact with a person who has coronavirus, you should contact the Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080.
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“We recognise that these are uncertain times,” says Gene. “At CCET, one thing we know is that hiking, being immersed in nature, and connecting with the great outdoors is immensely beneficial.”
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“Whenever you are ready to travel again, please know that we are ready to serve you.”