Tour companies across Australia have stepped up their support for travel agents, offering alternative options for those scrambling to adjust client bookings with the now in-administration tour company, Kumuka.

Following the company’s announcement yesterday that it would cease tour operations past 22 July this year, Peregrine and Gecko’s has offered travellers on scheduled tours with Kumuka a discount on a case by case basis.

“Saddened” by the situation, Peregrine and Gecko’s head of sales Mat Lewis said the company’s thoughts were with Kumuka and its employees but was also working towards relieving “a highly stressful and upsetting time for customers” and agents.

“The Private Groups department at Peregrine and Gecko’s is also assisting with FIT arrangements for Kumuka customers across many different destinations,” the company said in a statement.

“Agents needing assistance should contact Peregrine and Gecko’s as quickly as possible, so they can help with an alternative tour or FIT solution that best suits their travel arrangements.” 

Tucan Travel has also announced it will extend a five percent discount to customers affected by the company’s move into administration, a decision the Group’s chief executive Matt Ganan hopes will “offer those affected as much help and advice as possible”.

Meanwhile Intrepid Travel has set up a hotline for agents and consumers searching for alternatives.

In terms of tour payments, the company said it would assist customers by matching the price they paid for their Kumuka trip on equivalent available Intrepid Travel departures.